Knee OA is caused by wear and tear, and thinning of the cartilage in your knee joint which results in the bones of the joint compressing more closely against one another with less of the shock-absorbing benefits of cartilage. This extra load on the joint results in pain, swelling, stiffness, and sometimes, the formation of osteophytes (extra bone growth along the margins of the joint). The synovial membrane (thin layer of tissue) surrounding the joint can also become irritated and swollen (known as synovitis), causing swelling (also known as an ‘effusion’) and pain. These symptoms result in reduced walking mobility and general mobility, and over time can become very debilitating.
Treatment initially should include
1)Exercises, Education and weight management(if needed)
2) Manual Therapy, Acupuncture, Modalities(Laser/Electrotherapy), bracing/taping
3)If advanced, a visit to a specialist for consultation and possibly surgical intervention.
It is advised that you need a minimum of 45 minutes of physical activity per week to improve function of your Osteoarthritis. Ideally 150 minutes or 30 minutes per day is recommended.
Cartilage requires movement for nutrition. The loading of the knee with movement and physical exercise actually improves the viability of the cartilage. Sedentary lifestyles can make your osteoarthritis worse with less nutrition being provided to the cartilage and weaker muscles.
