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Knee Osteoarthritis: Symptoms and Causes

Knee osteoarthritis is a common condition affecting the joints, caused by the wearing down of cartilage that covers the ends of bones within the joint. This wear and tear result in bone-on-bone contact, leading to pain and discomfort. It is a chronic condition that tends to worsen with age, though it can occur at different stages of life due to specific factors. Patients often report a cracking or popping sound during movement, particularly in the kneecap (also known as the patella).

Causes of Knee Osteoarthritis

1. Aging: Over time, cartilage becomes less elastic and starts to wear out.
2. Excess weight: Additional weight places extra pressure on the knee joint, accelerating cartilage degeneration.
3. Genetic factors: A family history of osteoarthritis increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
4. Repeated injuries: Sports injuries or accidents affecting the knee may contribute to joint damage.
5. Physical inactivity: Lack of movement weakens the muscles surrounding the joint, increasing stress on the knee.
6. Excessive joint stress: Jobs or activities that require prolonged standing or continuous bending can strain the knee joint.

Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis

1. Persistent pain: Patients experience continuous knee pain, which intensifies with movement or exertion.
2. Stiffness: Difficulty moving the knee, especially after waking up or sitting for long periods. Patients may describe it as, "My knee feels locked when I wake up in the morning."
3. Swelling: Inflammation or fluid buildup around the knee joint.
4. Cracking or popping sound: A noticeable cracking or grating sound during knee movement. Patients often describe it as, "My kneecap makes a popping sound" or "My knee squeaks."
5. Weakness in surrounding muscles: Weak thigh muscles may cause difficulty walking.
6. Knee deformity: Advanced cases may result in visible changes to the knee's shape.

Prevention and Treatment

Prevention

• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Regularly exercise to strengthen muscles around the joint.
• Avoid activities that excessively stress the knees, such as frequent jumping from high surfaces.

Treatment

• Medication: Use pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs under medical supervision.
• Physical therapy: At Arkan, we are a trusted destination for many patients as the best physical therapy center, based on numerous patient testimonials. Sessions aim to improve joint flexibility, strengthen muscles, and include manual therapy and electrical stimulation to relieve pain. We first perform a thorough assessment to create a personalized treatment plan and rehabilitation protocol if an injury is present.
• Surgery: In severe cases, knee replacement surgery might be necessary. However, we have helped numerous patients avoid surgery by offering advanced physical therapy sessions in Cairo.