Overview of Knee Osteoarthritis

OVERVIEW OF KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is the most prevalent degenerative condition among all musculoskeletal disorders.

Knee Osteoarthritis: “A concern no longer confined to the elderly”

This is a condition of the joints being 'inflamed' and 'worn down' that occurs most frequently in people aged 50 and older, but can also occur in younger individuals. Especially in cases of accidents, knee injuries, or those with congenital abnormal bone and joint structures such as bow legs or flat feet, the risk of developing the disease increases. In knee osteoarthritis, the knee cartilage gradually disappears. As the cartilage wears away, it becomes frayed and rough, reducing the protection between the two ends of the bones. This can lead to bone friction and cause pain and inflammation. Osteoarthritis progresses slowly, and the pain worsens over time; if untreated, it can lead to loss of knee function.

RISK FACTORS.

KEY CLINICAL SIGNS TO OBSERVE.

Mechanical pain (activity-induced discomfort)

Symmetrical, mechanical pain that intensifies with physical exertion and alleviates with rest.

Persistent dull ache, flaring up intermittently with heavy lifting, postural strain, physical fatigue, stress, or weather changes, with a recurring tendency.

Minimal to absent manifestations of acute inflammation

May present with fluid hypersecretion resulting in joint effusion, commonly observed in the knee

Limited range of motion

Morning joint stiffness and difficulty moving: Joint gelling phenomenon upon initiating movement following a period of inactivity

Joint crepitus during movement

Disuse muscle atrophy secondary to reduced mobility

Joint deformity and functional loss àPERMANENT DISABILITY.

THE ROLE OF RADIOGRAPHY (X-RAY) IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS

Radiographic examination reveals three principal diagnostic signs:

Narrowing

Joint space loss: Cartilage completely worn away. Joint space reappears: Cartilage newly regenerated.