Knee arthritis is a painful condition that affects millions of Americans. It is characterized by inflammation and stiffness in the knee joint. Although there is no cure for arthritis, several treatments can help manage symptoms.

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the common causes of knee arthritis and discuss treatment options.

Anatomy of the knee

The knee is a complex joint formed by the femur, tibia, and patella. It is considered a hinge joint and is an important weight-bearing joint connecting the upper and lower leg. It has a wide range of movement, allowing for activities like walking, running, and jumping.

The knee comprises five articulations: the medial and lateral condyles of the femur, the medial and lateral condyles of the tibia, and the patellar cartilage. The femur and tibia are connected at the joint surface by a meniscus that cushions the knee and allows it to move freely.

What is knee Arthritis?

Knee arthritis is an umbrella term for many conditions that can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee joint. It is usually caused by the wearing away of the cartilage in the joint, which can lead to bone-on-bone contact and cause pain and inflammation.

Osteoarthritis, which is the most common form of arthritis, is also the most common cause of knee arthritis. Other causes of knee arthritis can include rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and gout.

Types of knee Arthritis

1) Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of knee arthritis and is caused by the breakdown of the cartilage that cushions the bones in the knee joint. It is a degenerative condition that can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the knee. It usually develops slowly over time, although it may sometimes progress quickly.

Osteoarthritis can cause severe pain and disability and significantly reduce a person’s quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to reduce the symptoms and prevent long-term damage.