Knee Osteoarthritis – Manage it before it Manages You
The Greek root word “osteo” means bone. Also from the Greek, “arthros” means joint. Add “itis” from Latin, which means inflammation, and you have osteoarthritis. Sounds very intellectual, but the language lesson will not help you achieve relief from knee osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most frequent of types of knee arthritis. The ball and socket joint of the knee, which is also a weight bearing joint, is subject to all kinds of wear and tear. Repeated strain on the knee contributes to Knee Osteoarthritis. So do previous knee injuries, including fractures and ligament tears. Obesity and genetics also play a role in knee osteoarthritis.
If your doctor suspects the space between your knee joints has narrowed, he may do x-rays to diagnose Knee Osteoarthritis. Your medical background and current health are important factors also. A closed sack of synovial fluid normally lubricates the ball and socket joint of the knee. Cartilage at the end of the bones adds cushion to the joint. Ideally, joints should move fluidly and little friction should be present. But, this is not the case with knee osteoarthritis. Arthroscopic knee surgery can be performed to view the knee and see its existing state. If degeneration of the joint has occurred, pictures taken during the surgery will expose knee osteoarthritis and its extent.
Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis usually develop over a period of years. The pain is frequently more intense after activity. The usual arthritic symptoms of swelling, tenderness, and inflammation will be present. Stiffness will worsen when the joint has been stationery for a period of time. The patient will also notice loss of freedom of movement of the joint. Being overweight can add to the problem of knee osteoarthritis. With progression, the knee pain will be constant instead of only when supporting weight. If you are experiencing these problems, it is time to get treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis.
There is not a cure for knee osteoarthritis. This ailment may have the consequence of restricting some activities in your life. However, management early on is of great advantage when treating Knee Osteoarthritis. Your physician should begin with the most basic procedures in treatment. Using a crutch or cane helps to balance out some of the pressure of bearing weight on the knee. Medications, natural or synthetic can be used. Topical applications can help with the swelling, tenderness, and pain of knee osteoarthritis. Always a last resort is knee replacement surgery.
