Skip to content

Click here to return to the home page

Osteoarthritis of the Knee

What is osteoarthritis of the knee?

A normal knee joint 
A normal knee joint

Often referred to as OA, osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It most often occurs in middle-aged and older adults but can occur at any age if the joint has been damaged because of previous fractures or some type of childhood disorder. It is a progressive, degenerative disease and usually affects the large weight-bearing joints of the lower extremities, including hips and knees, but can often affect the spine, neck and hands.

 
Knee joint with advanced osteoarthritis
Knee joint with advanced osteoarthritis

Causes of osteoarthritis

The causes of osteoarthritis are simply not known at this time. What we do know is there are many factors which can increase your risk of developing it. Things like obesity, muscle weakness, heredity, previous joint injuries, childhood disorders, repetitive motion and aging all enter into the equation of why it can occur.

Symptoms of osteoarthritis

Pain, swelling or stiffness in the joint are some of the most common symptoms. In early stages, pain may only be felt during activity, but as the cartilage wears away and the bones of the joint rub against each other the pain can become more severe and constant even during times when you are not moving.

Treatment options of osteoarthritis

You and your physician may try several non-surgical measures to relieve your knee pain and inflammation. These may include weight loss, exercise and physical therapy. Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements and anti-inflammatory medications may also help. In addition, joint fluid therapy such as SUPARTZ® Joint Fluid Therapy may also be prescribed to lubricate the knee and reduce pain.

If non-surgical treatment is unsuccessful, you and your physician may decide that knee surgery is the best option to help you regain your quality of life.


 

Find out more about your treatment options:

  • Lifestyle Modifications for Knee Treatment

    Learn about controlling arthritis and other joint pain and lifestyle modifications for knee health.

  • Medication for Knee Pain

    Explore analgesics, non-steroidal medication and nutrition. Discover help for arthritis pain and joint pain.

  • Joint Fluid Therapy

    Learn about joint fluid therapy, also called viscosupplementation, if you have failed to see results from simple painkillers or physical therapy and exercise.

  • Partial Knee Replacement

    Learn about a new option for partial knee replacement surgery and OXINIUM* Oxidized Zirconium implant technologies for ending knee pain.

  • Total Knee Replacement

    Learn about new options for total knee replacement surgery and OXINIUM Oxidized Zirconium implant technologies for ending knee pain.

  • Knee Revision Surgery

    Find out about some of the situations that require knee revision surgery.

 

SUPARTZ is a registered trademark of Seikagaku Corporation.
*Trademark of Smith & Nephew. Registered US Patent & Trademark Office.