Knee Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of knee arthritis. It is a degenerative, "wear-and-tear" type of arthritis that occurs most often in people 50 years of age and older, but may occur in younger people, too.

 

In osteoarthritis, the cartilage in the knee joint gradually wears away. As the cartilage wears away, it becomes frayed and rough, and the protective space between the bones decreases. This can result in bone rubbing on bone, and produce painful bone spurs.

 

Osteoarthritis develops slowly and the pain it causes worsens over time.

 

It is more common with people with knee alignment problems e.g. Too bow legged or too knocked knee.

 

It can occur in a person who had prior injuries to the knee. These can be meniscus tears or cartilage tears from road traffic accidents or sports injuries. Fractures involving the knee joint can also cause knee arthritis.

 

Knee arthritis results in inflammation. Pain, swelling, and stiffness are the primary symptoms of knee arthritis.

 

Knee arthritis can make it hard to do many everyday activities, such as walking or climbing stairs. It is a major cause of lost work time and a serious disability for many people.

 

Knee replacement surgery can provide reliable pain relief, improve range of motions and significantly enhance the quality of life for the sufferer of knee arthritis.

 

For more information on knee arthritis and treatment, please contact Dr HC Chang at +65-683 666 36 or email us at hcchang@ortho.com.sg.