Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis which happens due to significant damage in the joints that further causes rubbing of the bones. If you’re suffering from knee osteoarthritis then the cartilage of the knee joints breaks down by enabling the bones around it to rub together. You can contact the best physiotherapist in Siliguri to get relief from the distressing symptoms of knee osteoarthritis.
If the friction in the knees is not controlled at the right time then it can decrease your range of motion while making it swollen and stiff. Apart from physiotherapy, there are also various surgical and non-surgical treatment approaches that can ease the distressing symptoms of the disorder and slow down the progression.
Given below is a brief description of the common symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for knee osteoarthritis.
- Symptoms
One of the most common symptoms of knee osteoarthritis is knee pain which may worsen when you’re moving or working. Apart from this, your knee may also feel stiff especially when you’re sitting at the same place for a long time. You may experience puffiness or swollen knees which may also make grinding noise or crackling sound while moving.
Another major symptom of knee osteoarthritis is less knee mobility. This sign can make it extremely difficult for you to walk properly, climb up stairs, or get out of chairs. The severe pain associated with this disorder may increase if you’re indulging in strenuous physical activities.
- Causes
You have a high risk of developing knee osteoarthritis if you have advanced age. This mainly happens due to the decreased healing ability of the cartilage. Additionally, excessive pressure on the knees due to overweight or obesity can also cause this condition. You must know that women who are above 55 years have an increased likelihood of suffering from knee osteoarthritis.
In some cases, this health condition is also associated with genetic predisposition. If you have suffered repetitive stress injuries then you must visit the best physiotherapy hospital in Siliguri as it can lead to knee osteoarthritis. Some of the other factors that may contribute to the development of this issue are metabolic disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, and involvement in athletics.
- Diagnosis
Before curating the treatment plan, the doctor will conduct a thorough physical examination. This examination will help the doctor to check for any soreness or redness in the knees. Any signs of injury are noticed during the assessment and your range of motion will also be checked. If any loosening of the knees is felt then it may indicate joint instability.
To get a detailed view of your knees, the doctor will recommend certain tests which may include blood tests, magnetic resonance imagery (MRI), X-ray, and joint aspiration. As compared to other tests, MRI is more accurate as it can generate clearer images of your knees that can contribute to precise treatments.
- Treatment Options
There are several non-surgical methods that can help you control the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. Some such measures include maintaining proper body weight, using pain-relieving medications, and indulging in regular exercise. Doctors also recommend to use of a knee brace or orthotic footwear to manage the condition.
If this type of osteoarthritis is affecting your daily life activities then occupational or physical therapy to reduce pain and enhance engagement in regular activities. The doctor can also perform certain surgical procedures in case the condition has progressed to an advanced stage. The most effective surgeries include total knee replacement, knee osteotomy, partial knee replacement, or cartilage grafting.
Contacting the best physiotherapist in Siliguri and indulging in a proper exercise regimen can improve your function and mobility but it cannot reverse the effects of knee osteoarthritis. This is why you must take the necessary steps to prevent this disorder which may include practicing light strength training, getting proper rest, and eating a healthy diet.