Frequently Asked Questions
Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease, which means that it gets worse over time. As knee osteoarthritis progresses, the knee joint can become stiff and swollen and movement may be limited. Other complications of knee osteoarthritis may include loss of cartilage in the knee joint, bone spurs, and inflammation in the knee joint. In addition, knee osteoarthritis can cause pain and discomfort due to changes in the way weight is distributed throughout the knee joint or decreased range of motion. Further complications may include instability in the knee joint due to weakened ligaments or tendons surrounding it.
Patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis should be aware of certain activities that should be avoided to reduce knee pain and discomfort. High-impact exercises such as running, jumping and aerobics can put additional stress on the knee joints and worsen knee symptoms. Additionally, any activity or sport which involves frequent twisting or turning of the knee joint should also be avoided.
Unfortunately, knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease and the damage caused by it cannot be reversed. However, certain treatments such as physical therapy and knee injections can help slow down the progression of the disease and reduce pain symptoms.