Knee Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of knee arthritis. Also called wear-and-tear arthritis or degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis is characterized by progressive wearing away of the cartilage of the joint. As the protective cartilage is worn away by knee arthritis, bare bone is exposed within the joint.

Initially, arthritis of the knee is usually treated non-operatively. The treatment methods may involve weight loss, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, injection of the joint with cortisone, injection of the joint with a type of synthetic joint fluid designed to lubricate the arthritic surfaces (Hyalgan), and arthroscopic debridement of the damaged tissue within the joint.

What are the common symptoms of knee arthritis?

Knee arthritis symptoms tend to progress as the condition worsens. The most common symptoms of knee arthritis are:

• Pain with activities
• Limited range of motion
• Stiffness of the knee
• Swelling of the joint
• Tenderness along the joint
• A feeling the joint may "give out"
• Deformity of the joint (knock-knees or bow-legs)

Treatment for knee arthritis

In the early stages of osteoarthritis, treatment may involve several techniques. Behavioral and lifestyle changes including losing weight and changing routines to avoid painful situations can be very effective in relieving pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also provide relief from pain. Physical therapy may improve muscle strength and joint mobility, reducing the symptoms of osteoarthritis in the knee. Partial or total knee replacement surgery may be necessary as the disease progresses and daily functioning becomes more impaired.

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Health Tip

Gout is a type of arthritis in which uric crystalline deposits form in the joints, causing them to become painful and swollen. The base of the big toe is the site most commonly affected. The symptoms of gout usually flare up quite quickly.