Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common and often painful condition that can significantly impact daily life. For those experiencing knee pain or reduced mobility, understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for knee osteoarthritis can help in managing and even alleviating symptoms. Here, we’ll explore these factors and provide guidance on the latest treatment approaches for knee osteoarthritis.

What is Knee Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage—the smooth tissue that covers and cushions the ends of bones in a joint. In knee osteoarthritis, this cartilage wears down over time, leading to pain, inflammation, and decreased range of motion. 

Etiology: What Causes Knee Osteoarthritis?

The exact cause of knee osteoarthritis is multifactorial, often involving a combination of the following factors:

1. Aging: As we age, the cartilage in our knees becomes less resilient and more prone to damage.
2. Genetics: Some individuals inherit a predisposition to osteoarthritis, making them more susceptible.
3. Injury or Overuse: Injuries, including ligament tears, fractures, or meniscal injuries, can accelerate cartilage breakdown, especially if not properly rehabilitated.
4. Obesity: Excess body weight adds stress to the knee joint, accelerating wear and tear on the cartilage.
5. Muscle Weakness: Weak muscles around the knee provide less support to the joint, making it more vulnerable to damage over time.

Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis develops gradually, and the symptoms often worsen with time. Key symptoms include:

1. Pain and Stiffness: The most common signs, particularly after periods of inactivity or in the morning. Pain may worsen with activity.
2. Swelling and Tenderness: Inflammation in the joint leads to swelling and makes the knee feel tender to touch.
3. Reduced Range of Motion: Over time, stiffness can lead to a decreased ability to fully extend or bend the knee.
4. Grinding Sensation: This occurs due to the bones rubbing together as cartilage wears away, leading to a sensation of grinding or popping.
5. Deformity: In severe cases, the knee may appear misshapen as the cartilage loss affects the joint’s structure.

Treatment Options for Knee Osteoarthritis

While knee osteoarthritis is a progressive condition, various treatment approaches can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These treatments range from conservative methods to surgical options, depending on the severity of the condition.

Conservative Treatments

1. Physiotherapy: Physiotherapy is a cornerstone in OA management. A physiotherapist can help design exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee, increase flexibility, and reduce pain. Techniques such as manual therapy, electrotherapy, and guided stretching exercises can improve function and mobility.
2. Kinesiology and Strength Training: Working with a kinesiologist can be particularly beneficial for building strength and improving knee stability. This approach emphasizes functional movement training tailored to the patient’s needs and capabilities.
3. Acupuncture and Dry Needling: Both acupuncture and dry needling can relieve pain and reduce inflammation by targeting trigger points and promoting blood flow around the knee. These treatments provide pain relief and may reduce reliance on medication.
4. Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight and choosing low-impact activities (like swimming or cycling) can alleviate pressure on the knee joint, slowing OA progression.
5. Medication and Supplements: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) can help manage pain. In some cases, supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate may benefit joint health, though results and evidence vary.

Advanced Interventions

1. Injections: Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary pain relief by reducing inflammation. Hyaluronic acid injections may also improve joint lubrication, helping ease movement.
2. Surgical Interventions: In severe cases where conservative treatments are no longer effective, surgical options such as arthroscopy, osteotomy, or even knee replacement may be recommended.

Why Choose Our Clinic for Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment?

At our clinic, we specialize in helping patients manage musculoskeletal issues and sports injuries, with comprehensive services that include physiotherapy, acupuncture, kinesiology, athletic therapy, group classes and more. Our experienced practitioners take a personalized approach to knee osteoarthritis, focusing on helping you achieve long-term relief and improved function. Whether you’re dealing with early signs of OA, require a more intensive recovery program, or are recovering from an osteoarthritis related joint replacement surgery, we’re here to support your journey to a more active and pain-free life.

Book a Consultation Today

If you or a loved one is experiencing knee pain or other symptoms of osteoarthritis, don’t wait to seek support. Book a consultation with us today, and let’s create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Take the first step toward better mobility and a more active lifestyle—our team here in Kamloops is here to help.