Decoding Knee Arthritis: Recognizing Symptoms and Getting Relief
Our knees are like unsung heroes, supporting us at every step. But when arthritis creeps in, it can disrupt our daily rhythm.
Common Symptoms Of Arthritis In Knee include pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. Activities like walking and climbing stairs may become challenging. In advanced stages, joint deformities may occur.
In this blog, we will delve into the subtle symptoms of arthritis in knee, unravelling the symptoms and offering a compass toward relief.
What is Arthritis of the Knee?
Arthritis of the knee refers to inflammation of one or more of the joints in the knee, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness.
Arthritis of the knee can be a severe and debilitating issue, impacting an individual’s overall quality of life. The intricate interplay of these three bones becomes disrupted, causing discomfort and hindering normal joint function.
What are the Symptoms of Arthritis in Knee?
The common symptoms of arthritis in the knee include:
Gradual Increase in Pain
One of the common symptoms of arthritis in the knee is gradual or sudden pain, often exacerbated by climbing stairs, standing, or walking. Morning stiffness and discomfort after inactivity are common symptoms, especially in osteoarthritis (OA).
Swelling or Tenderness
Knee arthritis, especially in osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), can lead to inflammation characterised by
- hard swelling due to bone spurs in OA
- soft swelling from fluid accumulation in both OA and RA.
Buckling and locking
Joint damage may lead to instability, resulting in buckling or locking episodes. RA can damage tendons, affecting knee stability, while bone spurs hinder smooth movement, limiting the ability to bend or straighten the knee.
Cracking or popping sounds
When bending or straightening your knee, you might experience a grinding sensation or hear cracking and popping sounds. This often indicates a loss of cartilage, which normally facilitates smooth joint movement.
Poor range of motion
OA and knee injuries can impede smooth joint movement, making everyday activities like walking and standing challenging. Pain, swelling, and joint damage in RA may hinder knee flexibility and mobility. Over time, individuals might require assistance, such as a cane or walker, for better balance and mobility.
Knee deformity
Deformities during flares and disease progression are common, with RA causing swelling, redness, and long-term damage that alters the knee’s appearance. In OA, muscle weakening can result in a sunken look, with varying degrees of knee deformity affecting mobility.
If you have any of these symptoms of arthritis in the knee, consulting with an orthopaedic surgeon for an accurate diagnosis and treatment is crucial.
What are the Different Treatment Options for Arthritis in the Knee?
The treatment for arthritis in the knee aims to manage symptoms of arthritis in knee, reduce pain, improve joint function, and enhance the overall quality of life.
The specific approach depends on the type of arthritis and its severity. Here are common treatment options:
- Physical Therapy: Arthritis can be managed with activity modification and exercise. Tailored exercise programs can strengthen muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
- Medications: Medications help alleviate the pain, swelling, and inflammation associated with arthritis. The most common medications include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and analgesics.
- Joint replacement: Joint replacement involves removing and replacing damaged surfaces and worn-out joints with a prosthesis. The procedure aims to relieve pain and restore the alignment and function of your joint.
- Osteotomy: Joint re-alignment (osteotomy) may occur when malalignment leads to disease affecting a localised joint area.
- Lifestyle Modifications:
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Opt for low-impact exercises like cycling and swimming, aiming for 150 minutes weekly.
- Wear shock-absorbing inserts in your shoes.
- Apply heat or ice to the area.
- Wear a knee sleeve or brace.
- Use a cane.
Consult Dr Rik Kundra for Getting Relief from Arthritis in the Knee
If arthritis in your knee disrupts your life, causing pain and discomfort, consult an orthopaedic specialist like Dr Rik Kundra.
Dr Rik offers a comprehensive approach to finding relief from arthritis in the knee. His expertise and personalised care can guide you through various treatment options, ensuring a tailored plan to manage symptoms, improve joint function, and enhance your overall quality of life.
Take the first step towards improved knee health by seeking the guidance of Dr Rik Kundra.
Disclaimer
All content and media on this page are created and published for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Meet Dr. Rik personally for appropriate medical diagnosis and advice.
