The knee is the largest and most complex joint in the body. It has three bones: cartilage cushions the ends of the bones, and a thick synovial fluid lubricates the knee. Some people have pain even when X-rays show no damage to the knee. In these cases, a doctor may use ultrasound to look for abnormal accumulation of fluid or the presence of bony growths called osteophytes.

Symptoms

The knee is a complex joint of the thigh and shin bones and the patella or kneecap. Cartilage covers the ends of these bones and helps them move smoothly against each other. When a person has knee osteoarthritis, damage to this cartilage can cause pain and stiffness. The knee may also feel unstable and may lock or catch during movement. It may make a clicking, cracking, or snapping sound when moving.

Diagnosis

The ends of the bones in your knee joint are covered with a smooth, slippery surface called cartilage (car-ti-lide). It helps them move against each other without friction. There are also two rings of different kinds of cartilage that help spread your weight evenly across the knee. X-rays may show a narrowing of the space between your bones, typical of osteoarthritis. An MRI uses radio waves and a magnetic field to create detailed images of your bones and soft tissues, including cartilage. An MRI is usually optional to diagnose OA, but it can provide more information in complex cases.

According to experts in osteoarthritis knee treatment Lady Lake FL, nonsurgical treatments usually start with physical therapy and pain medications taken by mouth. These include NSAIDs, such as aspirin and naproxen. Your doctor may also recommend corticosteroid injections into the knee. Other experimental injections, such as platelet-rich plasma or hyaluronic acid, may relieve pain and encourage the repair of damaged soft tissue in the knee.

Treatments

The ends of your knee bones are covered with a smooth, slippery surface called cartilage (car-ti-lidge). Cartilage allows your bones to move against each other without friction. But as the cartilage deteriorates, your knee might feel stiff and painful, especially after prolonged sitting or waking up in the morning. It might also make clicking, popping, or grinding noises when you bend or extend your knee. Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, may help. Your doctor might prescribe stronger pain medicine if over-the-counter choices don’t work. Exercise can decrease joint pain and stiffness by strengthening the muscles around your knee. If you need to lift heavy objects, talk to your doctor about wearing a knee brace to protect the joint. Alternative therapies include topical creams with capsaicin and acupuncture. You might try glucosamine and chondroitin supplements to slow the progression of osteoarthritis. An MRI scan can rule out other conditions that cause your symptoms, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Prevention

During normal life, most joints are exposed to a low level of damage that the body repairs. But over time, certain activities may cause more damage. This damage can lead to symptoms of osteoarthritis. Taking steps to prevent OA can help slow the progression of symptoms. You can start by learning more about the condition. You can also speak with your doctor about what to expect from treatment. And you can ask about assistive devices that can help relieve pain. For example, a cane can take the weight off your knees as you walk. And a tool for brushing your teeth with a large grip might make it easier to do if you have arthritis in your hands.