Our Experts in Atlanta Explain Knee Osteoarthritis & its Challenges
Most people use and rely on their knee joints daily to help them move from one place to another. Repetitive use and movement increase a person’s risk of developing osteoarthritis knees.
Knee osteoarthritis affects nearly half (46%) of U.S. adults during their lifetimes but is most common in women over 50.
Did you know untreated osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee can change the shape of your knee joint—leading to instability and an increased risk of falling?
According to the Arthritis Foundation, patients with osteoarthrosis knee pain are 53% more likely to fall than those without knee osteoarthritis.
What Is Osteoarthritis of the Knee?
Osteoarthritis is a chronic degenerative joint disease commonly known as a “wear and tear” condition.
It occurs when the articular and meniscus cartilage (smooth, protective substances found on the ends of bones) starts to break down inside the knee. This cartilage supports and protects the knee joint during weight-bearing activities like jogging, running, jumping, walking, and stair climbing. Cartilage breakdown in knee osteoarthritis occurs due to a combination of factors, including
- Normal wear and tear
- Increased friction and pressure
- Inflammation (e.g., swelling)
- Bone changes (e.g., bone spurs or abnormal growths)
- Loss of natural lubrication
When the cartilage becomes worn or damaged, it creates additional pressure and friction on the knee joint, causing inflammation, swelling, pain, and discomfort.
There are no known cures for osteoarthritis in the knee, but non-surgical and minimally invasive treatment options can help alleviate pain and discomfort and improve mobility.
How Do I Know If I Have Knee Osteoarthritis?
Signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis knee develop slowly and worsen over time. If you have osteoarthritis of the knees, you will likely experience one or more of the following
- Pain in the knee joint (after repetitive use)
- Stiffness in the knee joint (after waking)
- Limited range of motion/loss of mobility
- Swelling around the knee joint
How Does Osteoarthritis in the Knee Impact My Body?
Living with osteoarthritis of the knee is, quite literally, a pain.
It can make you feel hesitant and prevent you from doing the things you love, like walking, gardening, golfing, and visiting with friends and family.
As OA progresses into severe osteoarthritis of the knee, it can significantly limit the knee joint’s full range of motion, cause pain even when resting, and lead to more severe health conditions like cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes.
Moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis significantly reduces your quality of life, even with medication, affecting social relationships, psychological well-being, and independent living.
How Is Osteoarthritis Knee Diagnosed?
If you’re experiencing pain, discomfort, or swelling in the knees, please schedule an appointment with Georgia Knee Institute. Our board-certified interventional radiologist (IR) physicians will meet with you to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle habits.
They will also conduct a brief physical exam and take detailed X-rays of your knee joints, which may reveal limited cartilage, bone spurs, or a narrowing of the joint—all indicators of osteoarthritis.
Depending on your unique medical situation, they may also recommend a knee MRI or knee arthroscopy to determine the best treatment plan.
Causes and Risk Factors for Developing Osteoarthritis in Knee Joints
Here are a few factors that could increase your risk of knee osteoarthritis
- Aged 50 or older
- Female
- Excess body weight (increasing stress on weight-bearing joints)
- Knee joint injuries
- Repetitive motion (e.g., twisting, reaching, overextending) from a sport or job
- Genetics and family history
- Bone deformities
- Certain metabolic disorders (e.g., high blood pressure, hyperglycemia)
Living with knee osteoarthritis can be challenging and frustrating, but understanding the causes of osteoartirtisis of the knee, being proactive about early diagnosis, and seeking proper treatment can help you manage this condition effectively—and with less pain.
Untreated osteoarthritis in knee joints can lead to several complications, like joint instability, pain (even at rest), and the risk of more serious health conditions.
If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort associated with osteoarthritis in knee joints in Atlanta—don’t delay—contact Georgia Knee Institute to learn about our high-quality and non-surgical treatment options. Our IR physicians are specially trained in leading-edge, minimally invasive OA treatment techniques to improve your quality of life so you can get back to doing the things you love.
