Knee osteoarthritis is a common type of osteoarthritis
In knee arthritis, the cartilage breaks down and wears away, leaving the bones to rub together causing pain, swelling, and stiffness and limiting the range of motion in affected joints. Although it tends to affect people in their mid to late 50s, if there is a significant trauma or an injury to a joint or overuse (such as some athletes might experience) symptoms of knee arthritis can begin at an earlier age. Other common factors include:
- Repetitive strain
- Abnormal gait (the way you walk)
Usually there are symptoms of stiffness, and pain that is getting progressively worse. The stiffness is usually worse at rest and is relieved by movement and pain is often exacerbated in cold weather. Most significantly, there is limited range of motion of the hip and pain during motion.
The initial aim of treatment is to reduce the local inflammation around the knee, relieve pain and symptoms, preserve or improve joint function, and reduce physical disability. This is done through adjustments and soft tissue therapy performed by a chiropractor. Rehabilitation is also a key part of caring for osteoarthritis.