Understanding Knee Arthritis: How It Develops and When Joint Replacement May Be the Right Choice
Knee pain is one of the most common complaints among adults, and arthritis is often the culprit. As one of the largest and most heavily used joints in the body, the knee is particularly vulnerable to wear and tear. For many people, arthritis in the knee can progress from a minor nuisance to a debilitating condition. In some cases, joint replacement surgery becomes the best option for relief.
How Does Arthritis Develop in the Knee?
Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and degeneration of the joints. In the knee, the most common types of arthritis are:
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Osteoarthritis – The most common form, often referred to as “wear-and-tear” arthritis. It develops gradually over time as the cartilage that cushions the knee joint wears away.
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Rheumatoid arthritis – An autoimmune disease that causes the body to attack its own joint tissues, leading to inflammation and joint damage.
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Post-traumatic arthritis – Develops after an injury to the knee, such as a fracture, ligament tear, or meniscus injury, even years after the initial trauma.
As arthritis progresses, the protective cartilage that lines the ends of the bones begins to break down. This leads to:
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Joint stiffness and swelling
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Persistent or worsening pain
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Decreased range of motion
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A grinding sensation or instability in the knee
Over time, the bones may rub directly against each other, causing increased pain and joint deformity.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Early and moderate knee arthritis is often managed with non-surgical options, including:
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Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles and improve joint function
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Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections
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Weight loss to reduce stress on the joint
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Activity modification to avoid high-impact movements
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Bracing or supportive footwear
While these methods can be highly effective for many, they may become less helpful as the arthritis progresses.
When Is Knee Replacement Surgery a Good Option?
If conservative treatments no longer provide adequate relief and knee pain significantly impacts your quality of life, knee replacement surgery may be considered.
You might be a candidate for joint replacement if:
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Pain persists even at rest or during sleep
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Everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, or getting out of a chair become difficult
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There’s noticeable joint deformity or stiffness
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X-rays show advanced joint damage or bone-on-bone contact
Knee replacement surgery involves removing the damaged portions of the joint and replacing them with artificial components made of metal and plastic. The goal is to relieve pain, improve mobility, and restore function.
What to Expect from Knee Replacement
Most people who undergo knee replacement experience significant improvements in pain and function. Recovery can take several weeks to months, depending on the individual and the extent of the surgery. Living with knee arthritis doesn’t mean you have to accept chronic pain or limited mobility. Early diagnosis and treatment can slow its progression, and for those with advanced arthritis, joint replacement surgery offers a highly effective solution. If knee pain is affecting your daily life, talk to an orthopedic specialist. Dr Albright and Dr Dales, both specialize in knee replacement surgeries. They can help you can determine the best course of action—whether that’s conservative treatment or considering joint replacement—to help you get back to doing the things you love.