Knee arthritis is most commonly referred to as osteoarthritis. It is the most common form of wear-and-tear arthritis. It is know that a joint is where two bones meet. Normally, the joint is protected by a smooth fibrous connective tissue called articular cartilage. This cartilage covers the surface where each bone comes in contact with one another. The articular cartilage acts as a shock absorber and allows smooth movement in the joint. A tissue called synovial membrane that produces synovial fluid acts as lubrication for the joint and protects it together with the cartilage.
With osteoarthritis, the articular cartilage degrades and degenerates. That is why it is also called degenerative joint disease. As the disease worsens, the cartilage becomes thinner and thinner until it wears out completely.
Knee arthritis is more common in people over 50 years old and is more prevalent in women. It can affect one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) sides of the knee joint, however, it is more common on the inner (medial) part of the knee. People who play intense physical activities and sports, like football, are more prone in developing knee arthritis. A previous knee injury may later develop into knee arthritis in the future.
The knee joint is made up of the thigh (femur) and shin (tibia) bone. On the surfaces of these bones is the articular cartilage that allows the smooth movement of the joint. In addition, there are two extra layers of cartilage in the knee known as menisci that helps in the stability of the knee. In case of knee arthritis, these knee cartilages degenerates which cause swelling and pain with reduced functionality in the knee.
Some common causes of knee arthritis are obesity and sometimes genetic factors. People who have history of knee injury in the medial knee such as meniscal or ligament trauma are more prone in developing knee arthritis. Excessive and prolonged use of knee joint such as in football can also cause the tearing of the knee cartilage. Previous fracture on the site of the knee may later develop into knee arthritis as well.
Common symptoms of knee arthritis are pain and inflammation. The pain is more commonly felt in the inner knee that worsens after exercise or excessive movement. Stiffness of the knee in the morning can also be experience but lessens after some movements. Swelling of the knee may also be observed since the there will be excessive production of the synovial fluid to help protect the joints. Individuals may also experience clicking and cracking noises when moving the knees.
It is important to go see a doctor when you experience even a slight pain in your knees. It is better to diagnose knee arthritis at an early age. An x-ray will be helpful in assessing the severity of the disease and in some cases, an MRI scan and blood sample test is necessary.
There is no cure for knee arthritis but worry not since there are some treatments that are available to alleviate the pain caused by knee arthritis. Some people undergo weight loss and exercise program to slow down the progression of the disease and to help strengthen the muscles. Knee supports and braces may also be used and some doctors prescribe NSAIDs to alleviate pain and inflammation. Other medications available are muscle relaxants, to alleviate muscle pains and viscosupplemetation that helps produce more lubrication for the joint. For some people, they resort to knee replacements.
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