Understanding Osteoarthritis Knee Symptoms
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a widespread condition affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage within the joints becomes damaged or gradually wears down over time.
Shockingly, projections indicate that by 2050, nearly one billion people may be grappling with this degenerative disease, with obesity identified as its primary contributing factor.
Although this condition can potentially damage any joint in the body, it is most seen in weight-bearing joints, like the knee, hip, and spine. The knees, in particular, are frequently affected.
Do You Have Osteoarthritis Knee Pain?
Osteoarthritis knee symptoms can be managed, and its progression can be significantly slowed with nonsurgical treatment—but it cannot be reversed or cured.
The most effective approach to slow the progression of osteoarthritis in the knee, lessen pain, and improve range of motion and mobility is to maintain healthy body weight, engage in regular exercise, and consult a board-certified physician about minimally invasive treatment options.
What Are the Symptoms of Osteoarthritis in the Knee?
Arthritis pain usually starts slowly, although in some cases, it can appear suddenly. If you’re experiencing osteoarthritis knee pain, you may notice symptoms first thing in the morning or after you’ve been inactive for a while. Your knees can hurt when
- Transitioning from a sitting to a standing position
- Walking
- Jogging
- Running
- Cycling
- Climbing stairs
Symptoms of osteoarthritis in the knee include
- Pain following periods of movement
- Morning stiffness
- Tenderness when touched
- Reduced range of motion
- Audible popping, cracking, or grinding during weight-bearing activities
- The formation of bone spurs or hard lumps around the knee joint
- Swelling and tissue inflammation
- Waking in the night with knee pain
Osteoarthrosis of the knee symptoms can also worsen in periods of cold weather, stress, and strenuous activity.
When Do Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis Require Medical Attention?
If you or a loved one has been experiencing one or more of the symptoms mentioned above for over six months, and at-home treatments have proven ineffective, seek urgent medical attention.
At-home treatments may include
- Strength training exercises to enhance joint stability and cushion impact
- Warm compress to alleviate muscle and joint stiffness
- Cold therapy for reducing inflammation, pain, and swelling
- Epsom salt bath to ease pain and inflammation
- Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatories
- Over-the-counter pain-relieving ointments and creams
- Support devices like braces, canes, knee tape, or shoe inserts
Please consult a board-certified physician before beginning any new exercise or at-home treatments for knee pain.
Improve Osteoarthritis Knee Symptoms with Food
Diet plays a crucial role in managing osteoarthritis knee symptoms.
Certain foods can help alleviate osteoarthritis knee pain
- Incorporate plenty of leafy green vegetables into your diet
- Consume dairy products rich in vitamin C and calcium
- Include fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as tuna, salmon, and mackerel
According to the Arthritis Foundation, some foods can make osteoarthritis knee symptoms worse
- Limit or avoid alcoholic beverages
- Be cautious of aspartame intake
- Cut back on salt
- Reduce saturated and trans fat consumption
- Minimize omega-6 fatty acids
- Watch your sugar intake
- Limit refined carbohydrates
- Beware of MSG (monosodium glutamate)
- Consider reducing or eliminating gluten and casein from your diet
Nonsurgical Treatment for Osteoarthritis Knee Symptoms
At Georgia Knee Institute, we offer a range of nonsurgical and minimally invasive treatment options designed to help slow the progression of knee osteoarthritis, symptoms, and pain.
If you suspect you are experiencing symptoms of knee osteoarthritis, we encourage you to contact the Georgia Knee Institute today and schedule a consultation. Our team of board-certified physicians specializes in the diagnosis and minimally invasive treatment of osteoarthritis knee pain.
