Know the Early Symptoms of Osteoarthritis of the Knee

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic condition caused by wear and tear of the cartilage that cushions the joints of the body. Symptoms include pain, swelling and stiffness. The knee is one of the most commonly affected areas, making it difficult to exercise, climb stairs, or even walk. Recognizing the symptoms of this joint disorder and getting early arthritis pain treatment at a reliable health care center can help you manage the condition, maintain independence, and stay active.

In the early stage of this joint disease, the cartilage becomes worn and torn. Inflammation sets in, and leads to swelling, pain and irritation. These conditions cause knee fluid loss, which reduces the protection of the joint and makes movement difficult.

Warning Signs of Osteoarthritis

Cartilage degeneration can occur due to genetic factors or a traumatic joint injury. OA develops gradually and it’s important not to ignore the early warning signs of the disease. It may begin in the knees, but can spread to other joints like the neck, back, hips and ankles. While its progression cannot be stopped, consulting a physician or physical therapist in the early stages is important for early diagnosis and effective treatment. Pay attention to the following symptoms of knee pain:

• Pain while bending and straightening the knee
• Tenderness or pain felt while pressing down on the joint
• Swelling. This is caused by a buildup of fluid in the joint, or by the formation of bony growths due to cartilage deterioration
• The skin of the knee is warm, especially at the end of the day
• Stiffness when moving the joint when you wake up or after a period of rest
• Abnormal sounds like clicking or creaking on bending the knee
• Loss of flexibility and range of motion – not being able to move the joint in a normal way
• Difficulty in standing for a long time

If you have one or more of these symptoms and they do not get resolve with over-the-counter medications, see your doctor. You will most likely be referred to an orthopedist for detailed investigation and diagnosis.

OA Management Plan

Besides assessing symptoms and medical history, diagnosing OA will include a physical examination. Diagnostic tests, such as x-rays or blood tests may be ordered to confirm the findings. You will be advised to maintain an ideal weight, avoid overusing the damaged joint, and perform exercises that strengthen the knee muscles.

In a reliable pain management center, your customized OA management plan would include the following modalities:

• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Exercises
• Warm and cold compression
• Occupational and physical therapy
• Weight loss program (if necessary)
• Supportive devices such braces and orthotics
• Injection therapies
• Complementary and alternative medicine strategies

Early osteoarthritis treatment will reduce joint pain and stiffness, delay progression, and improve mobility, function, and quality of life. So if the pain and other symptoms are interfering with your routine activities, don’t ignore them.

As a leading multi-specialty healthcare center in Brooklyn, New York City, HealthQuest offers quality care and sophisticated services. Our unique approach to patient care ensures fast return to a pain-free lifestyle.