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The Problem:
Osteoarthritis knee
pain. . .
What is osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee?
OA of the knee is a disease in which the knee joint gradually
deteriorates in the following ways:
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Cartilage at ends of bones that form knee joint begins to wear
away
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Thick fluid, called synovial (sin-OH-vee-ul) fluid, that surrounds
the knee joint becomes thinner and loses its ability to cushion and lubricate the joint
What are the common symptons of OA of the knee?
Symptions of OA of the knee typically include one or more of the
following:
What can cause OA of the knee?
The most common causes of OA of the knee include:
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Advancing age
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Wear and tear on joint over many years
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Injury to your joint (either old or recent)
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Excessive weight (based on your height, body frame, and other
factors)
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Genetic factors (a history of OA in your family)
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Gender (affects females [65%] more than males [35%])
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How is OA of the knee generally treated? There are numberous ways to treat OA of the knee, depending on the severity of the disease when you doctor first
diagnoses it. Treatments Include: Over-the-counter medications for pain Aspirin Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) Ibuprofen
(Advil®) Naproxen (Aleve®)
Topical pain medications Prescription medications for pain Assistive devices such as canes or braces Heat or cold application Exercise Weight loss
Physical Therapy Cortisone (steriod) injections Alternative treatments such as acupuncture and a complete
change in your diet. Total
knee-replacement surgery or partial knee-replacement surgery.
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