knee Arthritis in San Antonio

Causes of Knee Arthritis

Knee arthritis often results from a combination of factors, including genetics and environment, including injury and lifestyle choices. While there are several factors that contribute to knee arthritis, the exact cause varies depending on the specific type. The following are some of the most common causes:

• Age

• Previous knee injuries

• Overuse of joints

• Inflammatory conditions

• Genetics

• Bone deformities

Types of Arthritis

• Osteoarthritis: Most people with knee arthritis suffer from this type of arthritis. As your bones wear down, the protective cartilage that cushions them wears down. Consequently, the knee becomes painful, stiff, and swollen. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body, but is most common in the knees.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: This type of arthritis occurs when the body's immune system attacks the joint linings, including the knee. If left untreated, it can cause inflammation, pain, and joint damage.

• Post-Traumatic Arthritis: After a serious knee injury, such as a fracture or ligament tear, this type of arthritis can develop. Over time, arthritis can develop as a result of the injury to the knee joint.

Diagnosis of Knee Arthritis

An evaluation of a patient's medical history, physical examination, imaging tests, and sometimes laboratory tests is typically required to diagnose knee arthritis.

Treatment of Knee Arthritis

An effective knee arthritis treatment should relieve pain, improve function, and slow the progression of the disease. The treatment options for arthritis will vary based on the severity of the disease and individual factors such as age, level of activity, and overall health. Treatment options can include:

• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

• Physical Therapy: Using physical therapy, knee muscles can be strengthened, flexibility improved, and pain reduced.

• Steroid Injections: Corticosteroids can be injected directly into the knee joint to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

• Other Injections: Knee arthritis symptoms may also be relieved by injections other than corticosteroids. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections can enhance healing by lubricating joints and reducing pain. Hyaluronic acid injections can also help relieve joint pain.

In some cases, it may be necessary to consider surgery if conservative treatments are ineffective or if there is significant joint damage. In this case, the following surgeries may be performed:

• Arthroscopic Procedure: Surgical removal of damaged tissue.

• Osteotomy: Realigns the bones around the knee.

• Knee Replacement: May be performed to replace the damaged joint entirely.