Prior to we delving into osteoarthritis of the knee specifically, we must initially recognize what osteoarthritis is. Osteoarthritis is additionally called “wear and tear” arthritis, and as the name implies, it occurs when the cartilage material in between your joints (which acts as an all-natural cushion) is worn away.
This causes the bones on either side of the joint to rub against each other, causing various ailments such as discomfort, swelling, rigidity and even the development of bone spurs.
A type of arthritis
Osteoarthritis is one of the most typical type of arthritis, and the knee is one of the most often affected regions. This makes it vital to understand the root causes of osteoarthritis of the knee, the phases and signs of the condition along with the therapy options that are offered, to ensure that your knee continues to be as in good shape and sturdy as possible.
Causes of osteoarthritis of the knee
As you might have guessed, osteoarthritis of the knee takes place when the cartilage in the knee joint wears away and the bones in the leg start to rub against each other.
Phases of osteoarthritis of the knee.
Osteoarthritis of the knee can take years to develop, during which it progresses through 4 stages. Each stage offers more serious symptoms as well as more limited treatment options.
Minor
Throughout the first stage, known as the minor stage, damage to the cartilage material is generally extremely minor, and you are unlikely to experience pain or discomfort. The room in between the bones will look regular and not like it has been tightened. Occasionally, osteophytes (small lumps of bone) may expand in the knee region.
Mild
In the mild phase, many individuals will start to discover and experience signs and symptoms, and the wear and tear of the cartilage comes to be visible. The development of osteophytes will increase, and tissue in the knee will solidify, making the bone a lot more thick and thick. Nevertheless, individuals in the mild phase will not yet experience their bones rubbing against each other.
Moderate
After the damages to the cartilage intensifies, X-rays carried out in this stage will reveal both cartilage material loss and the room between the bones tightening. The bones respond to this cartilage loss by forming swellings and thickening. You might experience early indications of joint swelling such as discomfort and pain during daily activities such as kneeling and walking. Finally, individuals will also develop synovitis, or “water on the knee”.
Extreme
This is the final and most severe phase of Osteoarthritis knee. An X-ray will reveal the bones beginning to scuff against each other, and people will experience considerable pain and pain when moving. Extra bone swellings will also develop. At this phase, typically the only option left is surgical treatment.
