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Knee Conditions
Knee Osteoarthritis
Overview
Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that severely impacts the knee, causing the gradual breakdown of the cartilage of the knee. This gradual progression allows for early detection and intervention, making long-term management more effective. As a result, over a period of time, the disorder causes immobility and results in debilitating pain. Osteoarthritis of the knee is a long-term, progressive disease that requires medical management over time to prevent the progression of its symptoms. When the cartilage within the knee slowly disintegrates, the bones can painfully rub against each other. This constant friction leads to pain, swelling and stiffness in the knee.
Osteoarthritis, a degenerative disorder, occurs when the joint wears and tears over time due to the natural effects of age and overuse. Without proper care, symptoms can spiral out of control, significantly affecting one's quality of life. This underscores the importance of early detection and effective management to maintain a good quality of life.
In its most severe stage, knee osteoarthritis leads to complete degeneration of the knee cartilage. With the cartilage gone, the bones are at higher risk of painfully grinding against each other. Therefore, the knee becomes rigid, extremely painful and nearly impossible to move in its most advanced stage.
Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis
- Stiffened knee
- Debilitating knee pain
- A swollen or puffed-up knee
- Grinding or cracking noise when bending the knee
- It feels as if the knee is about to give out
- Locked knees
Complications of Knee Osteoarthritis
When arthritis of the knee advances without treatment in place, it can lead to joint instability.
Additional complications include the following:
- Formation of bone spurs: The breakdown of cartilage in the joint and persistent friction from bone-on-bone action can result in the formation of bone spurs.
- Formation of Baker’s cyst
Knee Osteoarthritis FAQ:
Is knee osteoarthritis serious?
Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative disorder that progressively worsens, especially without early treatment. Taking proactive steps to seek treatment can prevent these irreversible consequences, putting you in control of your health.
What are the symptoms that occur from knee osteoarthritis?
These are just a few of the examples of knee osteoarthritis:
- Swelling and stiffness in the knee
- Knee pain and reduced mobility
Do you need surgery for knee osteoarthritis?
Surgery is not always necessary but depends on the patient's unique circumstances and diagnostic assessment.
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