Osteoarthritis of the Knee
The knee is the largest weight-bearing joint in the body and therefore most commonly affected by osteoarthritis. Affected knees may be stiff, swollen, and painful, making it hard to walk, climb, sit down in and get up out of chairs, and get into the bathtub. If not treated, osteoarthritis in the knees can lead to disability. Medications, losing weight, exercise, and walking aids can reduce pain and disability. In severe cases, knee-replacement surgery may be helpful.
The disease often affects both knees and causes most problems after the sufferer reaches his or her late 50s. A previous injury or operation may cause osteoarthritis in only one knee. Sometimes there is no obvious cause. Pain is usually felt at the front and sides of the knee.
Osteoarthritis of the knee is more common in women than in men. Obesity and having osteoarthritis of the hand with nodes increase the risk of osteoarthritis of the knee in women.
Signs and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
