Arthritis refers to any chronic condition that affects the cartilage of the joints. The main signs and symptoms include pain, inflammation, loss of motion, and impaired function. The Arthritis Foundation states that over 100 different types of arthritis exist. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis found in the knee. This type of arthritis leads to a gradual breakdown of cartilage in the joints. This can occur from age, injury, or repetitive use of the affected joint(s). When worn down, cartilage can no longer act as a cushion and shock absorber for the joints, resulting in bone-on-bone friction and painful inflammation. Although aging is one of the most significant risk factors for osteoarthritis, obesity is also a significant contributor to developing osteoarthritis. Obese patients carry extra weight that increases the pressure through the joint and adds to cartilage breakdown. Recent research suggests that unhealthy diets (i.e., processed foods, high sugar content, etc.) are associated with increased inflammation throughout the body. This inflammation increases the likelihood of experiencing knee pain than patients with healthy weight and diets and similar cartilage damage. Therearealsophysical risk factorsassociatedwith increasedkneeosteoarthritis, including: • Injury to the joint • Participation in certain occupational activities (i.e., repetitive movements like bending or prolonged positions like sitting/driving) • Participation in sports (i.e., contact sports) • Thigh flexor muscle weakness and knee osteoarthritis Common Symptoms of Knee Arthritis ARTHRITIS & YOUR KNEE What Type of Arthritis Affects the Knee Joint?
It can sometimes be challenging to determine if you are genuinely experiencing arthritic symptoms or if you simply have a joint that is irritated fromprolonged positions or from being overworked. The most common signs and symptoms of knee arthritis include:: • Pain in the affected joint, which may spread to surrounding soft tissue • Stiffness that leads to loss of motion • Inflammation including warmth/heat around the joint • Joint creaking and pain with movement (especially when weight bearing) • Abnormalities in gait (such as limping) • Weakness of the muscles surrounding the joint If you have been suffering and looking for relief, do not hesitate to contact us today before your condition worsens. How Physical Therapy Can Help Arthritis Regardless of the cause of arthritis, physical therapy plays a significant role in treating its symptoms. Physical therapy should always be the first treatment method before resorting to more aggressive procedures, such as surgery.
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