Knee arthritis refers to the inflammation of the knee joint, which causes the breakdown of cartilage and causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee. This condition is also known as degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis.

What causes knee arthritis?

There are several factors that can cause knee arthritis. These include:.

Age:

As people age, the cartilage in their joints may degenerate, causing arthritis. This is more common in older people.

Obesity:

Excess weight puts more pressure on the knee joint, which can cause damage to the cartilage.

Joint injuries:

Knee arthritis can also be caused by injuries to the knee joint, such as fractures and ligament tears. Injuries can also cause wear and tear on the joint, leading to arthritis.

Genetics:

Some people may be more prone to developing arthritis due to their genes.

What are the symptoms of knee arthritis?

The symptoms of knee arthritis can vary from person to person, but some common symptoms include:.

Pain:

Knee arthritis can cause pain in the knee joint, either when walking or when the knee is at rest.

Swelling:

Knee arthritis can cause swelling in the knee joint, which can be painful and make it difficult to move the knee.

Stiffness:

Stiffness in the knee joint can make it difficult to move the knee, especially in the morning or after sitting for a long time.

Creaking or cracking sounds:

Arthritis can cause creaking or cracking sounds in the knee joint, especially when bending or straightening the knee.

How is knee arthritis diagnosed?

The diagnosis of knee arthritis is usually based on a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans.

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What are the treatment options for knee arthritis?

There are several treatment options available for knee arthritis:.

Medication:

Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. In some cases, prescription medications may be necessary.

Physical therapy:

A physical therapist can help you develop a program of exercises and stretches that can improve the strength and flexibility of your knee joint.

Weight loss:

If you are overweight, losing weight can help reduce pressure on your knee joint and improve your symptoms.

Injections:

Corticosteroid injections can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the knee joint. Hyaluronic acid injections can also help lubricate the joint and reduce pain.

Surgery:

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace damaged cartilage in the knee joint.

How can knee arthritis be prevented?

While it may not be possible to completely prevent knee arthritis, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk:.

Exercise:

Regular exercise can help improve the health of your joints and reduce your risk of developing arthritis.

Eat a healthy diet:

A healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein can help keep your joints healthy.

Avoid injury:

Take steps to avoid injuries to your knee joint, such as wearing protective gear when participating in sports.

Maintain a healthy weight:

Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the pressure on your joints and reduce your risk of developing arthritis.