Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in the knee. It is a degenerative “wear-and-tear” type of arthritis that occurs most often in people 50 years of age and older but may occur in younger people too.
In osteoarthritis, the cartilage in the knee joint gradually wears away. As the cartilage wears away, it becomes frayed and rough, and the protective space between the bones decreases. This can result in bone rubbing on bone and produce painful bone spurs. Osteoarthritis develops slowly and the pain it causes worsens over time.
What Causes Knee Osteoarthritis?
- Age: ability of cartilage to heal decreases as a person gets older
- Weight: increase pressure on the joints, in particular the knees
- Heredity: genetics’
- Gender: women ages 55+ are more likely than men
- Repetitive stress injuries: pending occupation
- Athletics: serious knee injuries in sports
- Other illnesses: metabolic disorders
What are the Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis?
- Joint becomes stiff and swollen, making it difficult to bend and straighten the knee
- Pain and swelling may be worse in the morning, or after sitting or resting
- Vigorous activity may cause pain to flare up
- The knee may “lock” or “catch” during movement.
- It may creak, click, snap, or make grinding noise (crepitus)
Diagnosis
Based on the history and symptoms of the injury presented, our physiotherapists will perform several tests to confirm the diagnosis. Sometime other imaging such as X-ray, MRI and bone scan can help detect signs of OA.
How can Knee Osteoarthritis be Treated?
- Pain relief & control inflammation
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Hot and cold treatments
- Injections of corticosteroids
Watch this three-part video series on how to treat Knee Osteoarthritis
Exercises to strengthen the hips, knees, and ankles
Exercises to strengthen the lumber-pelvic region
How to Modify sporting and daily activities
Lifestyle and home remedies:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Keeping active
- Healthy supplement
- Surgery (when other treatments don’t work!)
If you want more guidance on how to improve your knee strength or how physiotherapy can help you move better after a Knee Osteoarthritis diagnosis, book an appointment with me or with one of our physiotherapists or alternatively you can find out more about our physiotherapy services.
Date Published: Wednesday, February 9, 2022
About The Author
Hi! I'm Bill Kagaras
From a young age, Bill always had a passion for physiotherapy. Having played elite-level football (soccer), he was a ‘regular’ at his local physiotherapy clinic and came to appreciate the role physiotherapy had in both his sporting career, and general well-being. Bill's tertiary level education accomplishments include a Degree in Pre-Medicine from Judson University in Chicago, USA, a Diploma of Massage Therapy and a Doctor of Physiotherapy from Macquarie University. For several years, prior to opening Physio Inq McMahons Point in 2020, Bill worked at Physio Inq Engadine. He was mentored by highly experienced senior physiotherapists and was able to develop and refine his knowledge and technical skills. Bill was fortunate to be surrounded by a supportive team who gave him the opportunity to grow. His time at Engadine enabled him to progress his career, and move to the next chapter of his life, as a business owner at Physio Inq McMahons Point. Bill treats all different types of injuries, with his main areas of interest including lumber-pelvic pain, football/soccer injuries and headaches/migraine related conditions. He also works with people suffering from chronic cardiovascular conditions, assisting them with disease management and advice on exercising with chronic conditions. As a local, Bill is excited to be able to bring a high standard of physiotherapy care to his local community. Outside of the clinic you will find Bill playing soccer, having a meal at the local cafes, and walking with his wife along the scenic coastal tracks of North Sydney Harbour.
