Knee arthritis

Knee Arthritis

Diagram of knee anatomy

Knee arthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects the knee joint, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. It is one of the most common forms of arthritis and can significantly impact a person's quality of life.

Anatomy of the Knee

The knee joint is a complex structure that connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone). The patella (kneecap) sits in front of the joint to provide protection. The ends of these bones are covered with articular cartilage, which allows smooth movement and acts as a cushion to absorb shock.

Types of Knee Arthritis

There are several types of arthritis that can affect the knee:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of knee arthritis. It is a degenerative condition characterized by the breakdown of cartilage in the knee joint. As the cartilage wears away, bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain and stiffness.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that can affect the knee joint. It causes inflammation of the synovial membrane, leading to pain and swelling. Over time, it can damage the cartilage and bone within the joint.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Post-traumatic arthritis can develop after an injury to the knee, such as a fracture or ligament tear. The injury can cause damage to the cartilage, leading to arthritis over time.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of knee arthritis include:

• Pain and tenderness in the knee
• Swelling and inflammation
• Stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting for long periods
• Reduced range of motion
• A grating sensation or popping sounds during movement

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of knee arthritis typically involves a combination of:

• Medical history and physical examination
• Imaging tests such as X-ray or MRI to assess joint damage
• Laboratory tests to rule out other types of arthritis

Treatment

Treatment for knee arthritis aims to relieve symptoms and improve function. Options include:

• Physical therapy to strengthen muscles around the knee
• Medications such as NSAIDs to reduce pain and inflammation
• Corticosteroid injections for severe inflammation
• Surgery, such as knee replacement, for advanced cases

Prevention

Preventive measures for knee arthritis include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on the knee joint
• Regular exercise to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility
• Avoiding high-impact activities that can damage the knee

Related Pages

• Arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Knee replacement