What is the cause of degenerative changes in both knee joints, and what should be done?

Nov 11, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Jian
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, degenerative changes in both knee joints may be caused by age-related factors, overuse, obesity, trauma, or rheumatoid arthritis, and require management based on individual conditions. It is recommended that patients with degenerative knee joint changes follow medical advice for proper medication, undergo regular follow-up examinations, and adjust treatment plans according to disease progression. When necessary, use assistive devices such as walking sticks to protect the joints.

In general, bilateral knee joint degenerative changes may be caused by age-related factors, overuse, obesity, trauma, or rheumatoid arthritis, and management should be tailored according to the specific situation.

1. Age-related factors: With aging, knee joint cartilage gradually wears down, leading to narrowing of the joint space and bone spurs, among other degenerative changes. It is recommended to protect the joints and avoid prolonged standing, walking, or engaging in strenuous exercise.

2. Overuse: Certain occupations or exercise habits can lead to overuse of the knee joints. Prolonged repetitive flexion and extension movements of the knee joint, or sustained high pressure on the knee joint, accelerate cartilage wear. It is recommended to adjust work and exercise methods and use heat application and massage in daily life to relieve pain and improve joint function.

3. Obesity: Excess body weight places pressure on the knee joints, and long-term excessive pressure can accelerate cartilage wear, thus triggering joint degeneration. It is recommended to reduce intake of high-calorie, high-fat foods, engage in appropriate exercise, gradually lose weight, and relieve pressure on the knee joints.

4. Trauma: Severe fractures, ligament tears, or meniscus injuries to the knee joint can disrupt its normal structure and biomechanical balance. Uneven cartilage wear during the recovery process can affect joint function and gradually lead to degenerative changes. It is recommended to undergo rehabilitation training under a physician's guidance to restore joint function.

5. Rheumatoid arthritis: Inflammation causes synovial tissue within the joint to become inflamed and proliferate. Long-term immune-inflammatory reactions within the joint can severely damage the structure and function of the knee joint. It is recommended to take medications such as prednisone tablets, compound cyclophosphamide tablets, and celecoxib capsules under a physician's guidance to alleviate symptoms.

Patients with bilateral knee joint degenerative changes are advised to follow medical instructions for rational drug use, undergo regular follow-up examinations, and adjust treatment plans according to disease progression. When necessary, use assistive devices such as walking sticks to protect the joints.

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