OSTEOARTHRITIS
Osteoarthritis is the number one cause of disability in the United States with more than 20 million Americans suffering from the chronic disease. Since it is a chronic disease, the condition is likely to get worse over time. The immobility and knee pain is caused by the wear and tear between the joints. Typically OA occurs in three times as many women as men and more often in people over 50. There are some cases where younger people can have symptoms in their 20s and 30s due to sports injuries or accidents. With OA, everyday activities may be extremely painful or nearly impossible.
Healthy Knee
In a healthy knee, the bones and knee joint work like a hinge, covered by cartilage to keep them from rubbing together. Joint fluid fills the space between the bones and acts as a shock absorber. It cushions and lubricates your knee while walking, working or playing sports.
Mild to Moderate Osteoarthritis of the Knee
The cartilage begins to break down and the body’s joint fluid becomes less healthy. Without healthy joint fluid, your knees become sore and swollen.
Progression to Severe Osteoarthritis of the Knee
As time progresses, large pieces of bone and cartilage can break off and float in the joint. This causes severe pain and swelling. Large portions of cartilage can eventually be worn away. More irritation can be caused by growths or bone spurs. There are a severe cases where cartilage can be completely worn away, allowing your bones to rub together which causes pain and swelling.
Causes of Knee Osteoarthritis
If you feel as though you may have osteoarthritis, contact Blackstone Orthopedics & Sports Medicine to speak to an orthopedic surgeon or set up an appointment. For more information regarding osteoarthritis, visit our website or call to schedule an appointment at any of our 8 locations (800) 725-3037.
