Osteoarthritis of the Knee

Author: Chloe Mo, Founder & Registered Physiotherapist

This is a degenerative disease characterized by the gradual wear and tear and degeneration of joint cartilage. Cartilage is a smooth tissue that covers the ends of bones in a joint, helping the joint move smoothly. When cartilage wears down, the cushioning between bones decreases, leading to pain, stiffness, inflammation, and limited range of motion. Below are several main causes of knee osteoarthritis:

1. Age: As we age, the repair capacity of joint cartilage declines, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis.
2. Weight: Being overweight or obese increases the stress on the knee joint, accelerating the cartilage wear process.
3. Genetic factors: People with a family history of osteoarthritis are more likely to develop the condition.
4. Gender: Women, especially post-menopausal women, are more susceptible to osteoarthritis.
5. Joint trauma: Previous knee injuries, such as ligament tears or fractures, can increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
6. Repetitive use: Certain occupations or sports (such as running, football, or weight training) involve repetitive stress on the knee joint, which can lead to premature cartilage wear.
7. Muscle weakness: If the muscles on the front of the thigh (quadriceps) are weak, they may not effectively support the knee joint, leading to cartilage wear.
8. Abnormal bone morphology: Abnormal bone structure in the legs, such as bow legs or knock knees, can lead to uneven pressure on the knee joint, accelerating cartilage wear.
9. Metabolic diseases: Certain metabolic diseases, such as diabetes and hyperuricemia, may affect the health of joint cartilage.
10. Inflammation: Substances released during joint inflammation can directly damage cartilage cells and accelerate the wear process.
11. Treatment for knee osteoarthritis usually includes pain and inflammation reduction, improving joint function, weight loss (if necessary), physical therapy, using OA knee braces, and in severe cases, surgical treatment. Appropriate exercise and muscle strengthening can help support and protect the joint, slowing the progression of the disease.

#KneeOsteoarthritis #Osteoarthritis #KneePain #DegenerativeArthritis #JointDegeneration #JointHealth #ExerciseCare #PhysicalTherapy #StrengthTraining #JointProtection #AgingIssues #ChronicPain