Dr BurkeWhat Is Osteoarthritis of the Knee?
Osteoarthritis of the knee is a common condition that occurs when the cartilage in the knee joint gradually wears away, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. As the cartilage deteriorates, the bones in the knee rub against each other, causing inflammation and damage. This condition typically affects middle-aged and older adults, although it can occur in younger individuals due to injury or overuse. At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide specialized care for knee osteoarthritis, offering a variety of treatment options to relieve pain and improve knee function, enabling patients to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle.
Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, the protective tissue that cushions the ends of bones in the knee joint. As cartilage wears down, the bones in the knee joint can rub against each other, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. Over time, the joint may lose its natural shape, and bone spurs may develop, further limiting mobility and causing discomfort.
Osteoarthritis of the knee typically develops gradually and worsens over time. It most commonly affects the inner (medial) portion of the knee, but it can also affect the outer (lateral) portion or the area under the kneecap (patellofemoral joint).
Causes of Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Osteoarthritis of the knee can be caused by a variety of factors, including age, joint injury, and repetitive stress. Some of the most common causes and risk factors include:
- Aging: As we age, the cartilage in our joints naturally wears down. This makes older adults more susceptible to osteoarthritis, especially in weight-bearing joints like the knee.
- Previous Knee Injuries: A history of knee injuries, such as fractures, ligament tears, or meniscus damage, can increase the likelihood of developing knee osteoarthritis later in life.
- Repetitive Stress on the Knee: Jobs or activities that involve repetitive stress on the knee, such as squatting, kneeling, or heavy lifting, can contribute to cartilage wear and tear.
- Obesity: Excess body weight puts additional stress on the knee joints, accelerating cartilage breakdown and increasing the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
- Joint Misalignment: Abnormal joint alignment, such as being bow-legged or knock-kneed, can cause uneven wear on the knee cartilage, leading to osteoarthritis.
- Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to osteoarthritis, inheriting traits that affect cartilage health and joint structure.
- Gender: Osteoarthritis of the knee is more common in women, especially after the age of 50.
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis of the Knee
The symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee often develop gradually and may vary in severity. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Knee Pain: Pain in the knee joint, which may be worse after physical activity or at the end of the day. The pain may initially be intermittent but can become more constant as the condition progresses.
- Stiffness: Knee stiffness is common, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity. The stiffness usually improves with movement but may return throughout the day.
- Swelling: Swelling around the knee joint is common, particularly after activity. The joint may feel warm to the touch due to inflammation.
- Limited Range of Motion: As the cartilage wears down and bone spurs develop, the knee may lose its flexibility, making it difficult to fully bend or straighten the leg.
- Grinding or Popping Sensation: A grinding, clicking, or popping sensation (crepitus) may occur when moving the knee, particularly during activities like walking or bending.
- Instability or Buckling: In advanced cases of osteoarthritis, the knee may feel unstable or give way, especially during weight-bearing activities.
Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis of the Knee
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, diagnosing osteoarthritis of the knee involves a thorough physical examination and imaging tests to assess the condition of the joint and the extent of cartilage damage.
1. Physical Examination: The doctor will assess the knee joint for signs of swelling, tenderness, and reduced range of motion. They may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and activity levels to help identify potential causes of knee pain.
2. Imaging Tests:
- X-rays: X-rays are commonly used to diagnose knee osteoarthritis. They provide clear images of the bones and can show joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and other changes associated with cartilage loss.
- MRI: In some cases, an MRI may be ordered to provide detailed images of the soft tissues in the knee, including cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. An MRI is useful for identifying early-stage osteoarthritis or assessing the extent of damage in more complex cases.
Treatment for Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee at Dr. Burke Orthopedics focuses on relieving pain, improving joint function, and slowing the progression of the disease. Depending on the severity of the condition, both non-surgical and surgical treatment options are available.
1. Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Prescription medications may be recommended for more severe pain.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is a key component of treatment for knee osteoarthritis. A personalized exercise program will focus on strengthening the muscles around the knee, improving flexibility, and enhancing joint stability. Low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, are often recommended.
- Weight Management: For patients who are overweight or obese, losing weight can significantly reduce the stress on the knee joint and alleviate symptoms. Even a small reduction in body weight can lead to improved knee function and decreased pain.
- Assistive Devices: Using assistive devices such as braces, canes, or orthotic inserts can help reduce the load on the knee and improve mobility.
- Corticosteroid Injections: Corticosteroid injections can be used to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief from knee pain. The effects of these injections are typically temporary, lasting a few weeks to a few months.
- Hyaluronic Acid Injections: Hyaluronic acid injections, also known as viscosupplementation, may be used to lubricate the knee joint and improve mobility, particularly for patients with moderate to severe osteoarthritis.
2. Surgical Treatments: Surgery may be considered if non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief or if the osteoarthritis significantly impacts daily activities. Surgical options include:
- Arthroscopy: Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove loose cartilage, smooth damaged surfaces, or repair other joint issues. It is often used in early stages of knee osteoarthritis.
- Osteotomy: An osteotomy involves cutting and reshaping the bones around the knee to improve alignment and reduce pressure on the affected side of the joint. This procedure is typically recommended for younger patients with early-stage osteoarthritis.
- Partial Knee Replacement: In cases where only one part of the knee is affected by osteoarthritis, a partial knee replacement may be performed. This involves replacing the damaged portion of the knee with an artificial component while preserving the healthy areas of the joint.
- Total Knee Replacement: For patients with severe osteoarthritis affecting the entire knee joint, a total knee replacement may be necessary. This procedure involves replacing the damaged joint surfaces with artificial components to relieve pain and restore mobility.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from osteoarthritis treatment depends on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach. For non-surgical treatments, improvements in pain and function can often be achieved within a few weeks to months, particularly with consistent physical therapy.
- Non-Surgical Recovery: Patients undergoing non-surgical treatments can expect gradual improvements in knee pain and mobility. Regular physical therapy and weight management are key to long-term success and preventing the progression of osteoarthritis.
- Post-Surgical Recovery: For patients who undergo surgery, recovery times vary depending on the procedure. After a knee replacement, patients will begin physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in the knee. Full recovery from a total knee replacement may take several months, but most patients experience significant pain relief and improved quality of life.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide personalized rehabilitation programs tailored to each patient’s needs, helping them recover fully and return to their normal activities.
Why Choose Dr. Burke Orthopedics for Osteoarthritis of the Knee?
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we offer expert care for patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, providing both non-surgical and surgical treatment options based on the severity of the condition. Our team of orthopedic specialists is dedicated to helping patients relieve pain, improve knee function, and enhance their overall quality of life. With advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans, we ensure that each patient receives the best possible care for their specific needs. Whether you’re seeking conservative management or advanced surgical options, Dr. Burke Orthopedics is here to support you through your treatment and recovery journey.