What is Knee Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterised by the breakdown of cartilage – the protective cushioning between bones. Knee OA is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions in India. Dr Shahrukh Khan at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi provides comprehensive knee OA management from early stages to surgery.
Stages of Knee Osteoarthritis
Grade 1 (Minor)
Minimal wear, mild osteophytes (bone spurs). Usually asymptomatic. Management: lifestyle changes and exercise.
Grade 2 (Mild)
Notable bone spurs with preserved joint space. Morning stiffness, mild pain. Management: physiotherapy, medications, bracing.
Grade 3 (Moderate)
Significant cartilage loss, joint space narrowing. Regular pain during activities. Management: injections, physiotherapy, possible surgery.
Grade 4 (Severe)
Very little or no cartilage remaining. Severe pain, significant disability. Management: Knee replacement surgery.
Symptoms of Knee OA
- Pain and aching in the knee, especially after activity
- Morning stiffness lasting 30 minutes or less
- Swelling and tenderness around the joint
- Crepitus (grinding/cracking sounds)
- Reduced range of motion
- Bowing of the legs (varus deformity)
Treatment Options
Lifestyle Modifications
- Weight loss (each kg lost reduces knee load by 4 kg)
- Low-impact exercise (swimming, cycling)
- Knee-friendly physical activities
Medical Management
- Paracetamol and NSAIDs for pain
- Topical diclofenac gel
- Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements
Physiotherapy
Strengthening quadriceps and hamstrings, range of motion exercises, gait training.
Injections
- Corticosteroid injections for acute flares
- Hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation)
- PRP injections
Surgical Options
- Arthroscopic debridement (early stages)
- High tibial osteotomy (HTO) for malalignment
- Total or partial knee replacement (advanced stages)
Expert knee OA management at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi: 011-41670042
