A degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis is one of the most common types of arthritis. The knee is particularly susceptible to osteoarthritis, as it is prone to overuse and one of the joints that carries the most weight.

In addition to overuse, knee osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear on the joint surface, age-related degeneration, and several other factors. Stiffness and swelling are common symptoms of this condition, along with the inability to move the joint.

Inflammation and pain increase as the joint cartilage wears away, which can become serious if not treated. Having osteoarthritis can lead to a decline in physical and mental health if pain and loss of movement become chronic. When the joint surface wears away completely over time, patients will experience severe pain during movement or become incapable of full extension, which will significantly affect their daily lives.

There are hundreds of types of arthritis with osteoarthritis of the knee being the most common form. As one ages, the prevalence of osteoarthritis tends to rise, emerging as a prominent cause of disability among seniors.

Factors such as injuries, other joint issues, and genetic factors can heighten the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis. Additionally, being overweight can influence the development of osteoarthritis over time, as it imposes additional strain on weight-bearing joints, notably the knees.

Nearly half of individuals experience this condition at some point in their lives, with women being more predisposed to knee osteoarthritis than men. The majority of cases arise after the age of 40.

Damage to the joints causes osteoarthritis of the knee. This can develop based on a wide range of potential factors. Age is a primary cause of joint damage that leads to osteoarthritis of the knee because this damage can accumulate over time.

As you get older, your knee joints have been subjected to more repetitive stress. Apart from repetitive wear and tear, the cartilage in the knees weakens and loses flexibility over time, making it more susceptible to thinning and damage. Since knees bear the weight of the body, individuals who are obese face a higher risk of developing knee osteoarthritis due to the additional stress exerted on their knees by their weight.

Lifestyle factors, including occupational conditions, can also contribute to an individual’s vulnerability to osteoarthritis, as engaging in specific tasks regularly may lead to its development. Eventually, the gradual wear of joint cartilage results in bones rubbing together, causing a grating sensation.

Any knee injury, including ligament injuries or dislocated joints, even if they occurred in the past, can contribute to the onset of osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis is typically a progressive condition that can ultimately lead to disability. The severity of symptoms varies among individuals, but they generally worsen in intensity, frequency, and debilitation over time.

The most common symptom an individual with this condition experiences is pain. Osteoarthritis may also present with stiffness of the knee, limited mobility, and a feeling that the knee is stuck. With the progression, swelling in the joint and surrounding area may also manifest.

Following a comprehensive examination, which includes a review of symptoms, medical and family history, various tests may be conducted. X-rays of one or both knees are typically ordered by the doctor. In some cases, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be employed to capture both bone and soft tissue images.

Additional diagnostic tests, such as blood tests, may be conducted to exclude other conditions causing joint pain.

While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, effective symptom management allows many individuals to lead healthy and enjoyable lives, carrying out daily activities.

Treatment focuses on symptom control, and the most suitable approach depends largely on the severity and location of symptoms. At Specialty Medical Center, our specialists collaborate with each patient to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs, ensuring that osteoarthritis does not impede their ability to live an active and pain-free life.

Knee osteoarthritis treatment is available at Specialty Medical Center. We serve patients from Sterling Heights MI, Dearborn MI, Detroit MI, Birmingham MI, Allen Park MI, Warren MI, and BEYOND!