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What is it?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a condition which affects our joints. The cartilage that covers the ends of our bones thins and begins to wear away. Eventually, it becomes inadequate in its ability to protect the bone beneath. The bone develops spurs and cysts and the menisci (shock absorbers in the knee) can be susceptible to degenerative tears. Furthermore, the thin layer of tissue (synovium) inside the joint can become inflamed – it is often at this point, when you notice swelling of the joint.
As so many structures may be affected, the pain is not often localised.
Symptoms are often described as:
Stiffness – decreased movement when extending and bending the knee
Aching
Inflammation – swelling, warmth of the knee joint
Deformity
Risk Factors:
1. Weight
Obesity is a major cause of knee OA as the knee is a weight bearing joint
A BMI > 30 increases the risk of OA in women by 4x and in men by 5x
A 10% body weight reduction can = a 50% reduction in pain
A 5kg loss of weight can minimise the risk of developing OA by half
2. Age
Can affect all ages
More common with each decade over 45
3. Gender
More common in males before 50 and females after 50
4. Family History
A hereditary thin form of cartilage, that is less robust than the average
5. History of trauma or surgery
May develop early onset OA
6. Occupation (Heavy physical)
Increases load on knees
Diagnosis
Knee OA is diagnosed with a thorough clinical assessment, history and in some cases an X-ray.
It is important to note, that many people with osteoarthritic changes on X-ray do NOT have any symptoms of knee pain. Therefore, an X-ray is not the be all and end all diagnosis that you have OA knee pain OR that you will need a knee replacement.
How can Physio help in the Management of knee OA?
Physiotherapy exercise and education is integral in the management of knee OA. According to the research, physiotherapy is equally effective to arthroscopic surgery (key hole surgery), not to mention the fact that there are very minimal side-effects when it comes to therapy.
Whether surgery is on the cards in the short-term, long-term or not at all, physiotherapy can have an enormous impact on your level of pain and function.
We can:
Book an appointment at Coast Sport by calling 4356 2588 or book online via the button below.