Although age is the primary risk factor for osteoarthritis in the knee, younger people are also susceptible and for some, it could be inherited. In other cases, osteoarthritis in the knee may result from an injury, infection, or obesity.

You can find answers to all your questions about knee osteoarthritis, such as the treatment options and how to relieve the pain and how to find the best Orthopedic doctor.

Read this article to know all.

What Is Knee Arthritis?

The most common causes of knee arthritis are inflammation, which leads to the degeneration of cartilage in the knee joint. Cartilage is a slippery layer on the bones' ends that acts as a cushion and allows the knee to bend and straighten quickly.

In addition to covering the thigh bone (femur) and the hipbone (tibia), knee cartilage covers the back of the kneecap (patella). As the cartilage wears off, the space between bones shrinks. In the case of advanced arthritis, bones rub on bone, and bone spurs (bumps on the bone) can form.

Knee Arthritis Knee Injury

Cause of Arthritis In The Knee?

Experts have identified several genes that could trigger arthritis, such as knee arthritis. They believe there are additional genes that still need to be placed.

Although the reason for this is unknown, certain risk factors make it more likely to develop knee arthritis. The risk factors for osteoarthritis, specifically, are:

  • Age: Osteoarthritis is more prevalent in older adults often than younger adults or children.
  • Bone abnormalities: You're more likely to develop osteoarthritis if the joints or bones are naturally crooked.
  • Gout: Gout, a form of arthritis that is inflammatory, could result in osteoarthritis.
  • Injuries: Injuries to the knee can lead to arthritis in the knee.
  • The stress: A significant amount of pressure on your knees caused by running, playing sports, or working in activity could cause osteoarthritis in the knee.
  • Weight: Knees are put under more pressure when the body is overweight.

When Do You Need To Visit Your Doctor?

Treatment options are available for all kinds of arthritis. The earlier you seek treatment, the greater the chance it will be successful.

See your best Orthopedic doctor if:

  • inflammation or pain is not responding to any treatment
  • symptoms are getting worse, and you may experience additional symptoms, like an increase in temperature
  • It affects your everyday life, which includes the ability to sleep, and even walking

Diagnosis

The doctor will:

  • Inquire about the symptoms of joints, as well as other organs of the body that are involved.
  • be aware of your medical history as well as other health issues
  • conduct a physical examination
  • Perform some imaging tests to determine the source of immobility and pain.
  • Recommend blood tests to assess RA, Lupus, or other agents that could cause joint pain.

Treatment

Osteoarthritis cannot be reversed. However, treatments can ease discomfort and make it easier to get better mobility.

Medications

The medications that aid in relieving osteoarthritis-related symptoms, which are primarily pain, consist of:

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol, other) has been found to aid some patients suffering from osteoarthritis. Doing over the suggested amount of acetaminophen could lead to liver problems.
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) Available over-the-counter NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, and others) as well as naproxen sodium (Aleve), and taken in the doses recommended, usually help to ease osteoarthritis discomfort. More powerful NSAIDs are available through prescription.
  • NSAIDs can lead to abdominal upset, cardio and bleeding issues, and kidney and liver damage. Gels containing NSAIDs, which are placed on the skin over the joint affected, can cause lesser side effects and help relieve pain in the same way.
  • Duloxetine (Cymbalta). It is typically employed as an antidepressant. This medication can also treat chronic pain, such as osteoarthritis pain.

Therapy

  • Therapy for physical injuries. Physical therapists could provide exercises to build up the muscles surrounding your joints. This will increase flexibility and lessen discomfort. Regular gentle activities you perform on your own, like walking or swimming, could be equally efficient.
  • Therapy for occupational disorders. A knee injury doctor in Lahore in occupational therapy can assist you in finding methods to perform everyday tasks without placing extra strain on your joint that is already in pain.

A shower bench can help ease the discomfort of standing up if you suffer from knee osteoarthritis.

Knee Arthritis Surgery

If nonsurgical options fail to offer adequate relief from pain and improve mobility, it might be time to consider discussing the possibility of surgery with your physician, for example:

  • Radiofrequency ablation is used to block messages of pain from reaching the brain.
  • Complete knee replacement to rejuvenate the knee bone joint using artificial implants that ensure stability for the long term and decrease pain.
  • Synovectomy to eliminate the joint's lining that is damaged by rheumatoid joint arthritis.
 

What Kind Of Doctor Will Treat Knee Arthritis?

A sports medicine doctor or orthopedic surgeon can treat osteoarthritis of the knee, depending on the situation.

A physical therapist can treat lesser severe cases to ease pain and improve mobility. If you are experiencing knee pain caused by gout, rheumatoid arthritis, or another form of inflammatory arthritis, then you need to seek the advice of the Rheumatologist. (Find an expert who can diagnose and treat knee arthritis. )

best Orthopedic doctor Orthopedic Doctor

Do You Think Walking Is Good For Joint Arthritis?

Though it may appear counterintuitive, walking is a great way to reduce the stiffness and pain associated with osteoarthritis.

Furthermore, any form of exercise that can help you keep a healthy weight will lower the strain on joints, which can help slow the progress of arthritis.

It is essential to check with a doctor to confirm that the knee pain you are experiencing is caused by osteoarthritis more than an injury which is the best option.

A physical therapist or the best Orthopedic doctor can assist in determining the proper levels of exercise for people with arthritis of the knee.

Last Words

The signs and symptoms of knee arthritis depend to a certain degree on the kind of arthritis. Swelling, pain and loss of mobility are typical signs. There's no cure for arthritis however, treatment may ease symptoms, slow the condition's progression, and decrease the likelihood of complications. If you have RA, medication can reduce the intensity and frequency of flare-ups. Strategies like exercises and weight control could help delay or even eliminate the need to undergo surgery shortly. Your knee injury doctor in Lahore can help you make the right decisions regarding the kind of knee arthritis you suffer from.