Osteoarthritis of the Knee

Osteoarthritis of the knee occurs when the cartilage cushioning the joint gradually breaks down, allowing bones to rub together during movement. This friction causes pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced flexibility. The condition typically develops slowly over many years and is most common in adults over age 60, though younger people with prior knee injuries may also be affected.

While there is no cure for knee osteoarthritis, many effective treatments can help manage symptoms and maintain quality of life. Physical therapy strengthens the muscles supporting the knee, while low-impact exercises like swimming and walking help preserve flexibility. Supportive devices such as Apos Therapy footwear can correct gait patterns and reduce joint stress. Weight management is particularly important, as even modest weight loss can significantly decrease pressure on the knees and slow disease progression.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing knee osteoarthritis:

Age: Risk rises significantly after age 60 as cartilage naturally loses elasticity and becomes more prone to damage.
Excess weight: Each pound of body weight places approximately four pounds of pressure on the knees, accelerating cartilage breakdown.
Previous injury: Past knee injuries, including torn cartilage, ligament damage, or fractures, can increase the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis years later.
Genetics: Family history of osteoarthritis may increase susceptibility to the condition.
Gender: Women over age 50 are more likely than men to develop knee osteoarthritis.
Repetitive stress: Occupations or activities involving frequent kneeling, squatting, or heavy lifting can contribute to cartilage wear.

Symptoms of knee osteoarthritis can vary in severity but typically include:

Pain: Discomfort that worsens with activity such as walking or climbing stairs, and often improves with rest.
Stiffness: Joints feel stiff after periods of inactivity, particularly in the morning or after sitting for extended periods.
Swelling: Fluid buildup around the knee may cause visible puffiness and a feeling of warmth.
Reduced range of motion: Difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee, making daily activities more challenging.
Grinding sensation: A feeling or sound of bone rubbing against bone during movement, known as crepitus.
Instability: The knee may feel weak or give way, particularly when bearing weight or changing direction.

Living with knee osteoarthritis can be challenging, but these strategies may help manage symptoms and maintain mobility:

Regular low-impact exercise: Gentle activities like walking, swimming, or cycling help maintain joint flexibility and strengthen supporting muscles without excessive stress.
Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces strain on the knees and can slow disease progression.
Supportive footwear: Properly cushioned shoes with good arch support help maintain proper alignment and reduce joint impact.
Assistive devices: Canes, walkers, or knee braces can ease pressure on affected joints and improve stability.
Hot and cold therapy: Applying heat before activity can loosen stiff joints, while ice after activity can reduce swelling and pain.
Pacing activities: Alternating periods of activity with rest helps prevent overexertion and allows joints to recover.

Treatment for knee osteoarthritis focuses on managing symptoms and maintaining quality of life:

Physical therapy: A customized exercise program strengthens the muscles around the knee, improves flexibility, and enhances joint stability.
Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen, or anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, can reduce discomfort and swelling.
Gait-correcting devices: Specialized footwear like Apos Therapy helps redistribute pressure across the knee and improve walking patterns.
Injections: Corticosteroid injections provide temporary relief from inflammation, while hyaluronic acid injections may improve joint lubrication.
Topical treatments: Creams and gels containing capsaicin or anti-inflammatory ingredients can provide localized pain relief.
Surgery: In severe cases where other treatments have not provided adequate relief, partial or total knee replacement may be recommended.

Osteoarthritis of the Knee

Overview

Key Information

Risk Factors

Symptoms

Treatments That May Help

Yoga

Hydrotherapy

Acupuncture

Cold plunge

Stem Cell Injections

Hot Bath

Balneotherapy

Apos Therapy

Fascial Maneuvers

Research on This Condition

Glucosamine and Chondroitin May Help Ease Joint Pain in Seniors

Regeneration or Risk? A Narrative Review of BPC-157 for Musculoskeletal Healing

Best-Proven Treatments for Hand, Hip, and Knee Osteoarthritis

Emerging Use of BPC-157 in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine: A Systematic Review

Emerging Use of BPC-157 in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine: A Systematic Review

APOS therapy improves clinical measurements and gait in patients with knee osteoarthritis

Take the next step

Coping Strategies

Common Treatments