Knee Arthritis

What is Knee Arthritis?
Arthritis of the knee is one of the most common complaints amongst people across the world. There are three common types of knee arthritis; osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and post traumatic arthritis. Osteoarthritis of the knee is the most common form of arthritis seen amongst individuals, especially those in the elderly population. Osteoarthritis of the knee is typically identified by the progressively slow degeneration of the cartilage in the knee. This cartilage helps to provide cushion and protection between the bones. If it wears away, there can be a great deal of pain suffered in the knee. The pain associated with knee arthritis typically builds very slowly to the point where it may become unbearable and surgery may be required where the surgeon will perform a knee arthroscopy. Many people find temporary pain relief from the use of corticosteroids or NSAIDs.

Medical Definition of Knee Arthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of knee arthritis and can involve each of the three compartments of the knee individually or in combination.  The knee is divided up into the medial compartment, lateral compartment, and the patella femoral joint.  Statistically the medial compartment of the knee is the area that is most often affected by osteoarthritis, resulting in a bow leg.  Knock-knees occur when the lateral compartment is primarily involved with the destructive arthritic process.  Arthritis of the knee may also occur secondary to intra-articular fractures and inflammatory arthritides such as rheumatoid arthritis.  Statistically, osteoarthritis affects patients older than 55 years of age, particularly those who are obese and genetically predisposed.

Synonyms
- Osteoarthritis of the Knee
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Degenerative Joint Disease

What are the symptoms of Knee Arthritis?
- As arthritis progresses so will the pain on the knee joint bearing the weight.
- Buckling or giving of the knee.
- History that includes difficulty climbing and descending stairs.
- Stiffness and swelling of the knee joint may limit the range of motion of the knee.
- Locking or catching of the knee that is typically seen with a torn meniscus.
- With severe arthritis you may have pain that occurs while resting or sleeping.

Related Injuries
- Torn Meniscus
- Osteoarthritis of the Knee

Treatment of Knee Arthritis
- Proper usage of NSAIDS to help alleviate any pain.
- Use of corticosteroids if the NSAIDS are not providing adequate pain relief.
- Treatment modalities such as heat and ice may help relieve stiffness and aching.
- Neoprene sleeves and elastic bandages to control the swelling of the knee.
- Gravity eliminating exercises such as water aerobics and recumbent cycles.
- Progressive resistance exercise within a pain free range of motion.

Surgery
- Knee Arthroscopy

Related Anatomy
- Knee

Related Articles
- How to Rehab Your Knee After ACL Surgery
- The Best Ways to Prevent Knee Injuries

References
Greene W.B. (Ed). (2001). Essentials of Musculoskeletal Care.Rosemont, IL: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (363-365)