What is knee osteoarthritis?
May 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
Degenerative arthritis, commonly known as osteoarthritis, is highly prevalent in daily life. In the knee joint, wear and tear of the articular cartilage and exposure of the subchondral bone are primarily caused by excessive physical activity. During walking, the exposed subchondral bones rub against each other, resulting in knee pain. Initially, it is essential to actively prioritize rest, avoid prolonged standing or walking, achieve and maintain a healthy weight, refrain from excessive loading on the joint, and avoid stair climbing.
Degenerative knee arthritis, also known as knee osteoarthritis, is generally caused by changes in cartilage metabolism and nutrition, prolonged weight-bearing, uneven joint surfaces, and chronic fatigue injuries sustained over time. So, what exactly does “degenerative knee arthritis” mean?
What Does Degenerative Knee Arthritis Mean?
Degenerative arthritis—commonly referred to as osteoarthritis—is highly prevalent in daily life. In the knee joint, excessive physical activity primarily leads to wear and tear of the articular cartilage and exposure of the underlying subchondral bone. During walking, the exposed subchondral bones rub against each other, causing knee pain. Initially, it is essential to prioritize rest, avoid prolonged standing or walking, reduce body weight, refrain from excessive loading on the knees, avoid stair climbing and mountain hiking, apply traditional Chinese herbal heat therapy (e.g., warm compresses), and avoid massage. Wearing a knee brace during ambulation may provide additional support. Oral anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications—such as diclofenac sodium or celecoxib capsules—may be prescribed. Nutritional supplementation for articular cartilage, such as glucosamine hydrochloride, is also recommended. Intra-articular injections—including sodium hyaluronate and triamcinolone acetonide—can help alleviate inflammation, improve joint lubrication, promote cartilage recovery, and stimulate synovial fluid secretion, thereby effectively relieving symptoms.
Osteoarthritis is classified into primary and secondary forms. Primary osteoarthritis—also termed senile or degenerative osteoarthritis—typically occurs in older adults. Its onset is insidious and gradual; no specific curative drug exists, and disease severity tends to worsen with advancing age. Common clinical manifestations include joint pain, progressive worsening of pain, restricted mobility, and, over time, development of osteophytes (bone spurs).
If conservative treatment proves ineffective, surgical interventions may be selectively considered—including arthroscopic surgery or even total knee replacement. We hope this response has been helpful to you!
