Arthritis is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in joints throughout the body. While it can occur in any joint, it’s most commonly found in the knee. Knee arthritis can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, making it difficult to perform daily activities. In Fivali’s blog, we will discuss what it feels like to have arthritis in the knee, including its symptoms, causes, progression, and treatment options.
Symptoms of Arthritis in the Knee
- Arthritis in the knee can present with several symptoms, including pain, swelling, stiffness, and decreased range of motion.
- Pain is often the earliest symptom, which can be a dull ache or sharp stabbing sensation, localized to the knee joint.
- Swelling may also occur due to the accumulation of fluid in the joint, causing it to appear puffy or enlarged.
- Stiffness is another common symptom, which can make it difficult to bend or straighten the knee joint.
- Decreased range of motion can limit people’s ability to move the knee through its full range of movement. It can significantly impact an individual’s mobility and quality of life.
What causes arthritis in the knee？
Arthritis in the knee can be caused by various factors. The most common type is osteoarthritis, which occurs due to wear and tear of the joint over time.Other types of arthritis that can affect the knee include:
- rheumatoid arthritis
- psoriatic arthritis
- gout
- reactive arthritis
These types of arthritis are caused by an autoimmune response, where the body’s immune system attacks the joints, or by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint. Arthritis can also happen as a result of aging, obesity, repetitive stress on the joint, or previous injuries to the knee. Additionally, genetics and family history may contribute to the development of arthritis in some people. Certain occupations or activities that involve repetitive stress on the knee joint, such as kneeling or squatting, may also increase the risk of developing arthritis in the knee.
How to treat arthritis in the knee
- The treatment for arthritis in the knee depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause of the arthritis. Here are some common approaches to managing knee arthritis:
- Lifestyle modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in low-impact exercise, and avoiding activities that can exacerbate knee pain may help reduce symptoms.
- Knee braces: Knee braces can be useful in managing the symptoms of arthritis in some individuals. Knee brace for arthritis can provide support to the knee joint, which can help reduce pain and improve stability. Some types of braces also apply compression, which can help decrease swelling and inflammation. Additionally, wearing a knee brace during physical activity can provide added support and reduce the risk of further damage to the joint.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help improve flexibility and strength, which can decrease pain and increase mobility.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation. Prescription medications may be necessary for more severe cases.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections into the joint can provide short-term relief from pain and inflammation.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be recommended. Options include arthroscopy, joint replacement, or osteotomy.
Reference
Management of Arthritis and Joint Pain by CDC:
https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/pain/joint-pain-management.htm
Introduction of Knee Arthritis by OrthoInfo:
Disclaimer
The information provided in articles written by Fivali is intended for educational and reference purposes only. The content on this website ( fivalifitness.com) is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We do not recommend self-diagnosis or self-treatment based on the information provided in our articles. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your health or well-being.
If you are experiencing any symptoms or discomfort, we strongly encourage you to seek medical attention from a qualified healthcare professional. Only a licensed healthcare practitioner can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
