Knee arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the cartilage in the knee joint begins to wear away, causing pain and stiffness. As a knee injury doctor based in Houston, I’ve observed and treated numerous cases of knee arthritis, gaining significant insights into its progression.
Arthritis can occur due to various reasons such as age, genetics, obesity or an injury. In many instances, patients who have had a previous knee injury are more susceptible to developing arthritis later on. This is because injuries can cause damage to the cartilage or alter the mechanics of the knee joint, leading to abnormal wear and tear.
The progression of knee arthritis often depends on several factors including initial injury severity, patient’s overall health status and their physical activity level. The onset may be slow with mild discomfort which gradually worsens over time. Some patients may not even realize they have arthritis until dig into it has significantly progressed.
Early signs include swelling or tenderness around the joint, decreased range of motion or a grating sensation during movement. As it progresses further, symptoms become more severe with constant pain even at rest and visible deformity owing to changes in bone structure.
As a medical professional specializing in treating these conditions in Houston’s diverse population base – from athletes pushing their bodies beyond limits to elderly individuals battling aging issues – understanding this progression is crucial for effective treatment planning.
Non-surgical treatments are usually recommended initially unless there’s substantial joint damage. These include physical therapy exercises aimed at improving strength and flexibility; medications for reducing pain and inflammation; weight loss if necessary; use of assistive devices like braces or canes; injections with corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid; alternative therapies like acupuncture etc.
However, if conservative treatments don’t provide relief or if mobility becomes severely limited due to advanced stage disease then surgical interventions might be considered – ranging from arthroscopy (where damaged cartilage fragments are removed) up to total knee replacement (where the entire damaged joint is replaced with artificial components).
It’s important to remember that each patient’s experience with arthritis will be unique based on their personal circumstances. Therefore, it’s vital for doctors to take a comprehensive approach when diagnosing and treating this condition.
In conclusion, knee arthritis progression can vary greatly but generally involves an increase in pain and decrease in mobility over time. Early detection through awareness of symptoms and regular medical check-ups can help manage the disease effectively. As a knee injury doctor in Houston, I strive to provide personalized care plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs and lifestyle, helping them regain function and improve quality of life despite their arthritis diagnosis.