FAQ’S – KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS

Dear patient the information provided to you is based on the evidence-based literature and our experience with the intention of providing insights into the knee osteoarthritis, its symptoms and treatment available.

What is knee arthritis?

Wear and tear of the joint surfaces[cartilage] leads to loss of cushioning of the joint which is called arthritis, without cartilage to serve as a shock absorber, knee bones rub against each other, causing pain and more damage.

What are most common types of arthritis?

Most common variety of arthritis which affects Indian population is osteoarthritis, next in order is rheumatoid arthritis, seronegative arthritis and post traumatic arthritis.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?                                                                                   

Pain, stiffness and swelling in varying magnitudes are the symptoms of arthritis.

What is the cause of osteoarthritis?

Genetics, gender(female), age, lifestyle and environment factors are among the known causes of osteoarthritis 

What are the risk factors for osteoarthritis?

Modifiable risk factors – overweight/obesity, occupation which involve repetitive squatting and lifting heavy weights, joint injuries and smoking.

Non modifiable risk factors – age [beyond the age of 50 years], genetics, gender [females are more prone].

What are the symptoms of osteoarthritis?

Gradually progressive pain which begins as occasional and intermittent in early stages to persistent pain increasing with physical activities, swelling, stiffness, deformity of the knee like bow knees/knock knees and reduced function and disability.

Some people with increasing symptoms will be restricted in their daily activities.

Which are the exercises that can be safely done with knee osteoarthritis?

Low impact exercises like cycling, swimming and walking which do not stress the articular cartilage are safer to do.

What are benefits of doing exercises in osteoarthritis?

Exercising delay the onset of arthritis-related disability and help people with arthritis manage other chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.

Also exercises elevate the mood, improve function of the joint, reduce joint pain and improves quality of life.

which are the sports recommended for people with osteoarthritis?

Badminton, golf, yoga, moderate weight training with proper technique and table tennis are safer low impact sports for people with early arthritis.

Can I run and jump with knee arthritis?

Running per se will not lead to arthritis but it is contraindicated in people who are suffering with arthritis.

 

When to see the doctor?

Increase in the intensity of pain/swelling

Pain which makes you limp

Pain which does not get better with rest, hot and cold packs and over the counter pain killers.