Knee arthritis is a medical condition that involves inflammation and degeneration of the knee joint. The knee joint is where the thigh bone (femur) meets the shin bone (tibia) and kneecap (patella). It is one of the joints most commonly affected by arthritis.
Several types of arthritis can affect the knee joint:
- Osteoarthritis: This is the most common form of knee arthritis. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones in the knee joint wears away over time. Osteoarthritis often develops as people age or due to wear and tear on the knee joint.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects many joints, including the knee. It occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the synovium (the lining of the joint capsule), leading to inflammation, pain, and eventually joint damage.
- Post-traumatic arthritis: This type of arthritis can develop after a knee injury or trauma, such as a fracture or torn ligament. The initial injury can lead to joint instability and, over time, arthritis in the affected knee.
- Gouty arthritis: Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in joints, including the knee. When uric acid levels in the blood become too high, it can lead to painful gout attacks in the knee.
What factors can cause knee arthritis?
- Age: The risk of developing knee arthritis increases with age. As people age, the cartilage in the knee joint can wear down, leading to arthritis.
- Genetics: Family history can play a role in the development of knee arthritis. If you have a close relative with arthritis, you may be at higher risk.
- Gender: Knee arthritis is more common in women than men, especially after menopause. Hormonal changes may contribute to this difference.
- Obesity: Excess body weight puts extra pressure on the knee joint. The extra pressure can accelerate cartilage breakdown and increase the risk of knee osteoarthritis.
- Joint injury: Previous injuries to the knee, such as torn or fractured ligaments, can damage joint structures and increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis later in life.
- Overuse or repetitive stress: Activities that involve repetitive knee movements, such as kneeling, squatting, or participating in high-impact sports, can lead to joint wear and tear and increase the risk of osteoarthritis.
- Malocclusion or poor joint mechanics: Problems with knee joint misalignment or abnormal joint mechanics can lead to uneven wear and tear of cartilage, contributing to osteoarthritis.
- Inflammation: Certain autoimmune or inflammatory conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the knee joint and lead to arthritis.
- Infection: An infection in the knee joint can damage the joint structure and lead to arthritis if not treated promptly.
- Other medical conditions: Gout or pseudogout can cause crystals to build up in the knee joint, leading to inflammation and arthritis.
How to prevent knee arthritis?
Preventing knee arthritis involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle and taking precautions to reduce stress on the knee. However, the condition often begins as we age and the cartilage wears down.
Some tips that can help reduce the risk of knee arthritis:
1. Maintain a healthy weight
Excess weight can put stress on the knee, but maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of knee arthritis.
2. Exercise regularly
Do low-impact exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee. Activities such as swimming, cycling, and walking can help without putting too much stress on the joints.
3. Proper posture and body mechanics:
Practice good posture and body mechanics when participating in physical activities or lifting to avoid putting unnecessary stress on the knees.
4. Protective gear
If you participate in sports or activities that put you at risk of knee injury, wear appropriate protective gear, such as a knee brace.
5. Balanced diet
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids can help maintain overall joint health.
6. Avoid overuse
Avoid activities that put constant stress on the knees for long periods of time.
7. Regular checkups
See your healthcare provider regularly to monitor your joint health and address any problems early.
