Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of knee arthritis. OA is usually a slowly progressive degenerative disease in which the joint cartilage gradually wears away. It most often affects middle-aged and older people.
Symptoms:
- Pain that typically develops gradually
- Joint stiffness and swelling
- Difficulty bending or straightening the knee
- Symptoms that are worse in the morning
- Increased pain after activity
- Locking or buckling of the knee
- Symptoms that change with the weather
Examination may include:
- Medical history
- Physical examination
- X-ray
- Blood tests
Range of treatment:
- Change in types of activities
- Weight loss
- Exercise to increase range of motion and flexibility
- Physical Therapy
- Braces and walking devices
- Change in shoe wear
- Ice/heat
- Medications
- Injections
- Surgery, if necessary
Research:
Orthopaedic surgeons are continuing to search for new ways to treat arthritis of the knee. Current research is focusing on new drugs as well as on cartilage transplants and other ways to help slow the progress of arthritis.
