Knee Arthritis (Osteoarthritis)

A progressive degenerative disease where the protective cartilage cushioning the knee joint gradually wears away, resulting in painful bone-on-bone friction, inflammation, and reduced mobility.

Symptoms

• Persistent aching or flare-ups during movement
• Joint stiffness, particularly in the morning
• Swelling, tenderness, and warmth around the knee
• Grinding, clicking, or popping sensations (crepitus)
• Decreased range of motion and joint instability

Causes 

Natural wear-and-tear over time, joint malalignment, or prior traumatic joint injuries (such as ACL or meniscus tears).

Risk Factors 

Age (50+), obesity, repetitive high-impact physical stress, joint trauma history, and genetics.

Diagnosis 

A clinical physical examination combined with weight-bearing digital X-rays or advanced MRI imaging to measure joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and cartilage degradation.

Treatment

• Non-Surgical: Physical therapy, activity modification, weight management, anti-inflammatory medications, and targeted joint injections (cortisone or hyaluronic acid).
• Surgical: Minimally invasive arthroscopy, partial knee resurfacing, or total knee replacement (arthroplasty).