What is Knee Calcification?

What is Knee Osteoarthritis?

Knee osteoarthritis, medically known as osteoarthritis, is a degenerative joint disease that results from the gradual wear and tear of cartilage in the knee joint over time. It typically arises with aging, but joint injuries or overuse can also contribute to this condition.

Symptoms

• Pain: Pain in the knee that worsens with movement and decreases with rest.
• Swelling: Swelling and inflammation around the joint.
• Stiffness: A feeling of stiffness in the joint, especially in the morning or after prolonged inactivity.
• Limited Mobility: Restriction of movement and loss of flexibility in the knee joint.
• Crepitus: Creaking or grinding sounds heard when moving the knee.

Causes

• Aging: The natural wear and tear of cartilage increases with age.
• Genetic Factors: A family history of osteoarthritis.
• Joint Injuries: Previous knee injuries or surgeries.
• Overuse: Excessive use of the knee joint due to sports or work.
• Obesity: Excess weight adds additional stress to the knee joints.
• Joint Deformities: Congenital or developmental joint issues.

Diagnosis

• Physical Examination: The doctor examines the knee joint and assesses symptoms.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or computed tomography (CT) scans are used to detect joint damage.
• Laboratory Tests: Blood tests and joint fluid analysis help rule out other joint diseases.

Treatment Methods

• Medication

  • Pain Relievers: Acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help alleviate pain.
  • Corticosteroid Injections: Administered directly into the joint to reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Hyaluronic Acid Injections: Increase joint fluid to improve lubrication and movement.

• Physical Therapy and Exercise

  • Physical Therapy: Exercises that enhance joint mobility and muscle strength.
  • Knee Supports: Special knee braces or wraps for joint support.
  • Exercise Programs: Low-impact activities such as swimming and cycling.

• Surgical Treatment

  • Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgical method performed through small incisions.
  • Osteotomy: Bone realignment surgery.
  • Total Knee Replacement: Replacing the knee joint with an artificial joint.

Lifestyle Changes

• Weight Management: Losing excess weight reduces pressure on the knee.
• Healthy Diet: Consuming foods that support joint health.
• Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular exercise to strengthen the muscles that support the joint.
• Joint Protection: Avoiding excessive strain and wearing appropriate footwear.

Knee osteoarthritis can be managed with the right treatment and lifestyle changes. Early diagnosis and treatment improve quality of life and preserve the function of the knee joint.