Knee osteoarthritis is a common joint pathology caused by early wear or degeneration, especially in weight-bearing joints like knees, hips, and ankles. This degenerative disease leads to joint discomfort that worsens over time and impacts quality of life. It results from factors related to age and activity level, making early treatment crucial.
Symptoms of knee osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis causes aching pain in the knee joints, which can be sharp or dull. Key symptoms include:
- Pain during everyday movements like walking and sitting
- Increased pain after activity or rest
- Bony growths (osteophytes) visible on X-rays
- Joint swelling and decreased flexibility
- Stiffness, friction sensation between bones
- Impaired balance when standing
Causes and risk factors
Knee osteoarthritis arises from cartilage erosion between bones, disrupting shock absorption and smooth movement. Altered synovial fluid lubrication also contributes. Risk factors include:
- Older age
- Overweight or obesity
- Physical or occupational joint stress
- Lack of exercise
- Genetic predisposition or family history
- Previous meniscus, cartilage, ligament injuries, or fractures
- Abnormal knee alignment (varus or valgus)
Associated conditions such as gout and rheumatoid arthritis can also cause knee osteoarthritis.
Prevention
Managing knee osteoarthritis involves prevention and early therapeutic measures to reduce pain and joint damage:
- Low-impact exercises: Swimming, cycling, and yoga maintain joint flexibility while avoiding stress from running or skiing.
- Weight loss: Lessens joint load.
- Sufficient rest: Especially after pain flare-ups.
- Mechanical aids: Canes or crutches reduce joint strain during flare-ups.
- Pain relief: Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen, after consulting a healthcare provider.
- Heat or cold application: Heat to reduce stiffness; cold for swelling and severe pain.
Mild symptoms often respond well to these methods, while severe pain requires consultation with a podiatrist or medical professional.
The treatments
Diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis is often clinical, supported by symptomatic assessment and a biomechanical exam by a podiatrist.
Treatment options include:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Physical therapies such as kinesitherapy and occupational therapy
- Corrective foot orthotics to relieve pressure or correct alignment in valgus or varus knees
More severe cases might require advanced interventions discussed with a doctor, such as:
- Viscosupplementation: injections replenishing synovial fluid cushioning
- Hyaluronic acid injections to restore lubrication and reduce inflammation
- Cortisone injections for temporary pain relief
Joint replacement surgery is considered a last resort by orthopedic specialists.
PiedReseau – Learn more
For more information on knee osteoarthritis, PiedRéseau offers extensive resources. Nonetheless, personal consultation with a podiatrist remains essential.
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