Understanding Knee Pain: Not Just Osteoarthritis

Knee pain can significantly affect your quality of life. While it’s often associated with knee osteoarthritis, there are other potential causes that require attention. Here’s what you need to know:

• Causes of Knee Pain
Knee pain can arise from injuries, inflammation, or degenerative conditions. While knee osteoarthritis is a common culprit, other causes include tendonitis, ligament injuries, and rheumatoid arthritis.

• What is Knee Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis in the knee is a degenerative joint disease where cartilage wears down over time. It leads to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, especially in older adults or those with repetitive joint stress.

• Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis
o Gradual onset of pain
o Swelling or tenderness around the knee
o Stiffness after resting or in the morning
o Difficulty in performing daily activities like walking or climbing stairs

• Cure for Knee Osteoarthritis: What Are the Options?
While there is no complete cure for knee osteoarthritis, several treatments can alleviate symptoms:
o Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in low-impact exercises to reduce joint stress.
o Physical Therapy: Strengthening muscles around the knee for better support.
o Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers to manage discomfort.
o Advanced Treatments: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, hyaluronic acid injections, or surgery, such as knee replacement, in severe cases.

• When to See a Doctor
Persistent knee pain or symptoms that limit your activities warrant medical evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further joint damage and improve your quality of life.

By understanding knee pain and exploring effective treatments, you can manage your symptoms and maintain an active lifestyle.