Knee Arthritis

Arthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions your joints gradually deteriorates. A joint is any location where two or more bones meet, such as the knee, hip, wrist or shoulder. When the cartilage deteriorates, the bones grind against one another, resulting in damage and pain.

Knee arthritis is a degenerative joint disorder that impacts the knee. This condition causes the cartilage in the knee joint to wear down, resulting in reduced mobility, increased pain and increased stiffness. It can be triggered by aging, overuse or an injury.

All types of knee arthritis are caused by the deterioration of cartilage due to wear and tear, injury, age, body health and genetics. The following conditions also contribute to cartilage breakdown: 

• Gender: Arthritis is more common in women. 
• Joint alignment issues: Misaligned joints are more vulnerable to arthritis.
• Muscle weakness: Weak muscles around the knee joint leave the knee more vulnerable to injury and arthritis. 
• Previous knee injuries: Any knee injury can increase the chances of arthritis developing in the joint. 
• Repetitive stress: Some vocations and athletic activities that require repetitive movements can contribute to developing arthritis.
• Weight: Carrying extra weight puts pressure and stress on the joints, gradually wearing them down over time.

Several risk factors, such as age, gender, obesity and family history, can increase the chances of developing knee arthritis. To reduce the risks, it is essential to maintain a healthy weight and engage in regular physical activity. Wearing proper shoes and limiting certain activities, such as running or jumping, can also help prevent the onset of knee arthritis.

Studies have shown that preventing knee arthritis starts with maintaining a healthy weight and regular, low-impact exercise. Being cautious about injuries significantly reduces the risk of long-term joint cartilage damage. Practice proper form and technique while exercising, and be mindful of the floor and ground surfaces to avoid slips and falls.

Common symptoms of knee arthritis include pain, stiffness, swelling and instability in the affected area. Pain may worsen when climbing stairs or after too much weight-bearing activity. In addition to these symptoms, your range of motion may be limited, and you may experience a grinding sensation when the joint is bent.

Diagnosing knee arthritis usually involves a physical examination and imaging tests such as X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Your doctor may also inquire about your medical history and perform specific tests to gauge the affected area’s range of motion and strength.

During the physical exam, the experts at the Montefiore Einstein Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation will look for signs of pain and tenderness when the knee is moved in specific ways. They will examine your joints closely, looking for swelling, tenderness, reduced range of motion and muscle weakness.

Painful knee arthritis can prevent you from being as active as you would like, leading to a more sedentary lifestyle. This lifestyle exacerbates knee arthritis by weakening the ligaments, tendons and muscles around the knee. Physical activity also pumps fluid in and out of the joint space, which helps your knee stay healthy.

Whether you are recovering, such as from injury or surgery, or you’re in the early stages of developing arthritis, your physician will likely recommend physical therapy. The goal of physical therapy is to make daily tasks and activities easier. For example, therapy may help with walking, climbing stairs or getting in and out of bed.

Physical therapists provide treatments you may need when knee pain makes it hard to move around and do everyday tasks. These treatments may help you move better and relieve pain. A physical therapist can also educate you on the function of the knee joints and how to retain and maintain health, comfort and mobility. The Montefiore Einstein team of physical therapists will also help with pain management by recommending over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, ultrasound-guided cortisone injections into the knee joint, nerve blocks or radiofrequency ablation. They may also recommend a brace as appropriate.

A physical therapist will help you understand:

• How your knee works and what arthritis does to the joint
• Ways to put less stress on your knee, such as carrying lighter loads, losing extra weight or using a cane
• How to use heat or cold at home to help your pain
• Ideas for activities and exercises that will make your knee stronger
• Non-opioid oral pain management
• Ultrasound-guided cortisone injections into the knee joint, nerve blocks or radiofrequency ablation 
• Bracing as appropriate

Symptoms of knee arthritis typically improve with treatment and rest. If the condition is exacerbated by overuse, a change in work habits or hobbies may be needed to prevent flare-ups. Many patients also experience relief by making lifestyle changes, including introducing more exercise and maintaining a healthy anti-inflammatory diet. In some cases, using supportive devices like a cane, a walker, shoe inserts or a knee brace will be helpful.