Knee Arthritis: Definition, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Definition and pathophysiology of arthritis in the knee

Arthritis in the knee, also known as osteoarthritis, is characterized by the progressive wear of cartilage, the slippery tissue that covers the ends of both bones in a joint. As cartilage wears away, the space between the bones decreases, causing painful bone-on-bone contact. This cartilage wear leads to joint inflammation, pain, and stiffness, which can limit knee mobility.

Progressive Nature

Knee osteoarthritis is a progressive disease that can worsen over time without proper treatment. Initially, it may affect only one side of the knee, but it is likely to spread and become worse, affecting the entire joint. Without treatment, osteoarthritis can lead to a complete loss of joint function, necessitating a surgical intervention to restore mobility and eliminate pain.

Knee arthritis symptoms

Knee arthritis symptoms typically develop gradually and may include:

• Pain: Pain is often the first symptom; it worsens with activities such as walking or rising from a chair. The pain can be diffuse or localized to the joint.
• Stiffness: Stiffness is mainly felt after periods of inactivity or when getting up in the morning. It may lessen after a few minutes of movement but often persists throughout the day.
• Swelling: Swelling can occur due to internal joint inflammation. This is one of the signs of arthritis in the knee and can fluctuate with activity and weather conditions.
• Reduced Mobility: Decreased range of motion makes it difficult to fully bend or straighten the knee. This can limit daily activities and affect quality of life.

Professor Etienne Cavaignac can provide you with long-term relief from the osteoarthritis of the knee symptoms by offering treatments tailored to your condition.

Causes and risk factors of osteoarthritis in the knee

Osteoarthritis in the knee can result from several factors that increase the stresses on the joint or contribute to cartilage degradation:
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• Obesity: Excess weight adds more pressure on weight-bearing joints like the knees, accelerating cartilage wear. Additionally, body fat has a pro-inflammatory effect, enhancing pain sensation and inflammation.
• Previous Injuries: Injuries such as fractures or ligament damage in the knee can precipitate the development of osteoarthritis.
• Repetitive Movements: Certain work and recreational activities that put repeated stress on the knee can accelerate cartilage wear and tear.

Diagnosis of Knee Osteoarthritis

The diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis combines evaluating symptoms, a physical examination, and imaging tests.
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• X-rays: X-rays are used to look for joint space narrowing, osteophyte formation, and other structural changes in the knee joint. They help to determine the stage of osteoarthritis and to plan the appropriate treatments.

• MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides detailed images of the soft tissues around the knee, including menisci and ligaments. It is useful for evaluating the extent of cartilage damage and identifying other abnormalities not visible on X-rays. MRI is not mandatory if osteoarthritis is already visible on X-rays.

Knee arthritis treatment and surgery

Knee arthritis treatment aims to relieve pain, maintain mobility, and minimize disease progression. Options include non-surgical and surgical approaches, depending on the severity of the condition.

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to reduce pain and inflammation. Corticosteroid injections may be administered for short-term symptom relief. Hyaluronic acid injections improve joint lubrication and can reduce pain and improve mobility.

• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy plays a crucial role in treating knee osteoarthritis. Strengthening, flexibility, and endurance exercises help support the joint and reduce knee strain. Manual therapy techniques can also be used to improve joint mobility and reduce pain.

Surgical Interventions

If non-surgical treatments fail, consulting a specialist knee surgeon is the next step.
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• Osteotomy: This procedure realigns the bones to redistribute pressure on the knee joint. It is often recommended for younger patients with localized osteoarthritis and abnormal knee alignment.

• Arthroplasty: Partial or total knee replacement is an option when conservative treatments are no longer effective. This procedure involves replacing the arthritic joint with a prosthesis, significantly relieving pain and improving joint function.

Orthense, Personalised Follow-up

Orthense is a digital healthcare solution deployed by Professor Cavaignac to assist patients before and after surgery. This platform allows for remote follow-up, providing patients with easy access to care without having to go to the hospital. Online interactions, including questionnaires and specific information, facilitate communication between the patient and medical teams, promoting personalised and effective rehabilitation.

Knee osteoarthritis is a complex condition that requires a multidisciplinary approach. Understanding the available options allows patients and healthcare professionals to work together to develop a treatment plan that effectively improves quality of life. Conservative treatments and appropriate surgical interventions can be used to manage knee osteoarthritis symptoms and to maintain an active and independent life. A proactive and personalised approach to managing knee osteoarthritis is essential to optimizing treatment outcomes and improving patients' quality of life.

Do you have a question about managing your condition? You can contact Professor Etienne Cavaignac, a specialist in knee osteoarthritis treatment, by email at contact@professeur-cavaignac.com or via the contact form.