Early Osteoarthritis
What is osteoarthritis of the knee?
Osteoarthritis in the knee happens when the cushion-like cartilage between the bones wears away. This makes the bones rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling in the knee. While it can’t be cured, there are treatments to help with the symptoms and slow down its progress.
Who suffers from osteoarthritis of the knee?
✓ Women are more likely than men to develop osteoarthritis of the knee.
✓ Most people get it after age 40.
✓ Obesity
✓ Previous Knee Injury like Meniscus Tear, Ligament Injury or Knee Dislocation can increase risk of developing osteoarthritis later in life.
✓ Certain Occupation : Sitting Cross Leg( Palathi) for prolonged duration for work or heavy lifting.
How does osteoarthritis in the knee affect my body?
Knee pain is the most common symptom of osteoarthritis in the knee, making activities like jogging, running, climbing stairs, or kneeling painful. It can also make your knees feel stiff or swollen. Over time, it can change the shape of your knee joint, making it feel unstable or wobbly.
What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis in the knee?
Pain is the most common symptom. Your knee may hurt when you move it or even when you’re sitting still. Other symptoms include stiffness, swelling, cracking or grinding noises when you move your knee, feeling like your knee might give out, or getting stuck.
How is osteoarthritis of the knee diagnosed?
Dr. Vishal Mandlewala at Renison Knee and Shoulder Clinic will thoroughly check and examine your knee. Dr. Vishal Mandlewala might ask about your medical history and advice for additional test like:
1. X-rays
2. MRI scans: To evaluate soft tissue , meniscus, Ligament and cartilage of knee joint.
3. Scanogram: to evaluate varus / valgus of knee.
How do you treat osteoarthritis of the knee?
Treatment may include nonsurgical options, injections, or surgery. Usually Dr. Vishal Mandlewala at Renison Knee and Shoulder Clinic providers try nonsurgical treatments first.
Nonsurgical treatments include pain medications, physio therapy, maintaining a healthy weight, using a hinge knee brace, and injections like hyaluronic acid.
Surgical treatments include procedures Arthroscopy Surgery, HTO( High Tibial Osteotomy), High Tibial Osteotomy with Meniscus Root Repair, Dual osteotomy, partial knee replacement, or total knee replacement.
What factors are considered when recommending surgery?
Dr. Vishal Mandlewala might recommend surgery if nonsurgical treatments haven’t helped, your symptoms affect your quality of life, or tests show your knee joint is deteriorating.
Take Home Message:
When managing your osteoarthritis, it’s essential to have guidance and treatment options tailored to you. Dr. Vishal Mandlewala at Renison Knee and Shoulder Clinic can provide personalized care to help you effectively manage your condition.
