SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT WITH US
Are Your Symptoms Affecting Your Quality Of Life?
Consult our MOH-accredited orthopaedic specialist for a detailed consultation & personalised treatment plan today.
Knee Osteoarthritis
Dr. Ambrose Yung
What is Knee Osteoarthritis?
Knee osteoarthritis is a condition characterised by the gradual degeneration of cartilage in the knee joint, resulting in pain, swelling, and stiffness as the protective cushion between the bones wears away.
Without sufficient cartilage, the bones in the knee joint rub against each other, causing discomfort and restricting movement. Over time, this can lead to significant limitations in mobility, making daily activities difficult.
Causes and Risk Factors
Knee osteoarthritis develops gradually, due to various factors that wear down the knee joint over time. Common risk factors include:
- Ageing: The risk of knee osteoarthritis increases with age, particularly after the age of 50, as joint flexibility declines and the cartilage that cushions the knee naturally wears down.
- Joint Overuse: Repetitive stress from activities such as running, heavy lifting, or frequent kneeling or squatting can accelerate cartilage wear and eventually lead to osteoarthritis.
- Injury or Trauma: A previous knee injury, such as a fracture or ligament tear, can increase the risk of osteoarthritis due to pre-existing joint weakness or damage.
- Genetics: Some people may be more prone to knee osteoarthritis if they have a family history of the condition. Genetic factors can influence cartilage strength and joint health, raising the risk of early cartilage breakdown.
- Obesity: Excess weight puts additional strain on the knee joint and can cause inflammation, both of which accelerate cartilage wear.
Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis
Symptoms of knee osteoarthritis vary between individuals but generally worsen over time as the condition progresses. Common signs include:
- Pain and Swelling
Pain in the knee, particularly during or after movement, along with swelling around the joint. - Stiffness
The knee may feel stiff, especially after periods of inactivity or in the morning, making it difficult to move freely. - Grinding or Clicking Sounds
You may hear grinding or clicking noises when moving the knee, caused by cartilage loss that leads to bones rubbing against each other. - Reduced Range of Motion
Bending, straightening, or fully moving the knee joint becomes more difficult, which can limit daily activities. - Instability
The knee may feel weak or unstable during movement, increasing the risk of falls or further injury.
Diagnosis of Knee Osteoarthritis
Diagnosing knee osteoarthritis involves several steps to confirm the condition and rule out other joint issues.
- Medical history and symptoms review: The doctor will enquire about your symptoms, such as pain and stiffness, difficulty moving the knee, previous knee injuries or repetitive activities that contribute to cartilage wear.
- Physical examination: The doctor palpates your knee to assess its range of motion, stability, and tenderness and may perform specific movements to check for signs of cartilage loss, such as reduced range of motion or grinding.
- Imaging Tests: X-rays are commonly used to detect joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and changes in bone structure that may indicate osteoarthritis. MRIs can provide more detailed images of the cartilage and soft tissues in the knee, which can help confirm the extent of cartilage damage.
- Arthroscopy: This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a small camera into the knee joint to examine the cartilage directly. This can help assess the severity of osteoarthritis and guide treatment decisions.
Treatment Options for Knee Osteoarthritis
Non-Surgical Treatment
Non-surgical treatments can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression. Common options include:
- Medication: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen are used to treat pain and inflammation. For more severe cases, stronger anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed.
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can guide you through exercises that strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and reduce strain on the joint. This helps improve knee stability and manage pain.
- Supportive Braces: Knee braces are commonly used to relieve joint pressure and provide extra support on the knee joint in order to improve function during daily activities.
Surgical Treatment
Surgery for knee osteoarthritis is considered when non-surgical treatments no longer provide relief. Common surgical procedures include:
Arthroscopic Surgery
A minimally invasive procedure where small incisions are made to insert a camera and surgical tools into the knee joint. It is used to remove loose fragments of damaged cartilage and smooth the joint surfaces. It typically results in less pain and a quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Partial Knee Replacement
Only the damaged portion of the knee is replaced, leaving the healthy areas intact. This procedure is less invasive than a total knee replacement and can result in a faster recovery while preserving more of the natural knee function.
Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement may be required if the entire knee joint is damaged by osteoarthritis. The damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with artificial components, providing long-term pain relief and increased mobility in cases of severe osteoarthritis.
Osteotomy
For younger patients with early-stage osteoarthritis, an osteotomy may be recommended. This procedure involves cutting and reshaping the bones around the knee to shift weight away from the damaged area, preserving the joint and delaying the need for a full knee replacement.
Reducing the Risk of Knee Osteoarthritis
Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in low-impact exercises such as swimming or cycling can reduce strain on the knees and lower the risk of osteoarthritis. Strengthening knee muscles improves joint stability, while a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods supports joint health. Wearing supportive shoes during physical activities can further protect your knees.
Regular check-ups help detect early signs of osteoarthritis for timely management.
Our Clinic Locations
Spire Hip & Knee Centre
6 Napier Road #08-04
Singapore 258499
Monday – Friday: 9.00am – 6.00 pm
Saturday: 9.00am – 1.00pm
Sunday & PH: CLOSED
Spire Orthopaedic Physiotherapy & Rehab Centre
101 Irrawaddy Road, #18-03
Singapore 329565
Monday – Friday: 9.00am – 6.00 pm
Saturday: 9.00am – 1.00pm
Sunday & PH: CLOSED
Get Started
Book An Appointment
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does recovery take after treatment for knee osteoarthritis?
Recovery time varies depending on the treatment. Non-surgical treatments like medication and physical therapy may take a few weeks to provide noticeable relief, while recovery from surgery, like a knee replacement, can take 3 to 6 months.
Can knee osteoarthritis be prevented?
While osteoarthritis cannot always be prevented, avoiding activities that strain the knee or ensuring proper technique during physical activity can lower the risk. Treating knee injuries early can also help prevent osteoarthritis.
Is knee osteoarthritis curable?
Knee osteoarthritis cannot be completely cured, but symptoms can be managed with medication, exercise, and in some cases, surgery, all of which can help improve knee function and quality of life.