Knee OsteoarthritisComplete Management Guide
Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions worldwide. Learn comprehensive management strategies to reduce pain, improve function, and maintain quality of life.
What Happens in Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the knee joint gradually breaks down. This leads to bone rubbing against bone, causing pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.
Risk Factors:
- Age (50+ years)
- Excess weight
- Previous knee injuries
- Family history
- Repetitive stress on joints
Common Symptoms
- Pain that worsens with activity
- Stiffness, especially in morning
- Swelling and tenderness
- Reduced range of motion
- Grinding sensation (crepitus)
- Bone spurs around joint
Management Strategies
- Weight management and loss if overweight
- Regular low-impact exercise
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Heat and cold therapy
- Assistive devices (braces, canes)
- Activity modification
- Strength training
- Acetaminophen for pain relief
- NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen)
- Topical pain relievers
- Corticosteroid injections
- Hyaluronic acid injections
- Prescription pain medications
- Supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin)
- Arthroscopic surgery
- Osteotomy (bone realignment)
- Partial knee replacement
- Total knee replacement
- Cartilage restoration procedures
Exercise Program
Maintain and improve joint flexibility
Heel Slides
Gently bend and straighten knee while lying down
Knee Extension
Straighten knee while sitting
Ankle Pumps
Flex and point foot to improve circulation
Build muscle strength to support the joint
Quad Sets
Tighten thigh muscle while leg is straight
Straight Leg Raises
Lift straight leg while lying down
Wall Sits
Slide back against wall with knees bent
Improve overall fitness without stressing joints
Walking
Start with 10-15 minutes, gradually increase
Swimming
Excellent low-impact exercise
Stationary Cycling
Low resistance, comfortable pace
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