Knee Arthritis

The term arthritis refers to an inflammatory condition affecting one or more joints of the human body. Gradually increasing pain, significant swelling, tenderness in the affected area, and stiffness are its main symptoms.

Any joint in the body can be affected by this condition. However, it most commonly occurs in the knee or hip joints, as these are the joints that bear the greatest proportion of body weight. These areas are subjected to the highest levels of pressure during most daily activities. The proper and smooth function of these joints is essential for us to stand upright and walk normally. Several types of arthritis can affect the knee joint, but by far the most common is osteoarthritis, which develops in most people over time and is commonly referred to as “wear-and-tear arthritis.” The second most common type is rheumatoid arthritis, and the third is post-traumatic arthritis, which may occur in cases of previous meniscal or anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries to the knee. Patient with previous knee injuries are very likely to have knee arthritis in their life.

Although arthritis is a condition that primarily affects adults, it can sometimes also occur in children. The treatment approach depends on the type of arthritis, the severity of the symptoms, and the intensity with which they present.

Degenerative (Osteoarthritis) of the Knee

Degenerative knee arthritis is one of the most common causes of knee pain. It occurs when the structural components of the knee deteriorate, leading to impaired joint function. The main characteristic of this type of arthritis is the progressive wear and tear of the joint cartilage. As the protective cartilage wears down, the bones become exposed, the knee swells, and daily activities become increasingly painful. Although it can also occur in younger individuals, degenerative knee arthritis most commonly affects people aged 50 and older. Its symptoms develop gradually and progressively worsen over time.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Knee

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease that affects multiple joints throughout the body, including the knee joint. It is an autoimmune disorder, meaning that the immune system attacks the joints and other tissues, causing significant damage to the knees. Its symptoms tend to develop and worsen relatively quickly after their onset.

Post-Traumatic Arthritis of the Knee

Post-traumatic arthritis is a form of arthritis that develops after an injury to the knee or other joints. Special attention is required in cases of post-traumatic arthritis, as it may occur following fractures, injuries, or meniscal tears that negatively affect joint alignment and balance. As a result, the cartilage is gradually damaged, leading slowly but steadily to post-traumatic arthritis. For example, a fracture involving the joint surface or tears of the menisci, cruciate ligaments, or other soft tissues may damage the articular surface and result in arthritis, even years after the initial injury. Meniscal tears and ligament injuries can cause significant additional wear within the knee joint, which over time may lead to instability and eventually to arthritis.

The primary symptom of knee arthritis is inflammation accompanied by pain. The knee often feels warm and tender to the touch, both at the site of the damage and in the surrounding areas. Depending on the type of arthritis, the pain may develop gradually over time or may appear suddenly. The joint may also become stiff, significantly reducing the range of motion of the leg. Many patients report increased pain during changes in weather conditions, particularly on days with high humidity.

• Pain that progressively becomes more intense
• Knee stiffness and limited range of motion
• Swelling and redness in the affected area
• Pain after intense activity or during weather changes
• Muscle atrophy around the knee

Regular physical activity can help patients manage knee arthritis, provided that it is performed under the supervision of a physiotherapist or qualified trainer. Exercise can improve the strength of the leg muscles, enabling them to better support the knees. Strengthening exercises using weights or resistance bands are an excellent option for patients with arthritis. Brisk walking is generally considered a beneficial physical activity; however, in cases of knee or hip arthritis, it may be contraindicated, as it can aggravate symptoms. The same applies to activities that involve significant impact or repetitive strain, such as climbing up and down stairs. Swimming and other low-impact exercises with a controlled range of motion and steady resistance can help relieve pain and support rehabilitation. Combined with the use of analgesics and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), patients can experience significant relief within a relatively short period of time. Although degenerative changes in the knee cannot be reversed, modifying a patient’s habits and activity patterns can allow them to remain active and continue enjoying activities that might otherwise be considered too demanding.

Treatment depends largely on the type of arthritis. The primary goals of therapy are to relieve pain, improve joint mobility and strength, control symptoms to the greatest possible extent, and prevent further joint damage. Treatment for knee arthritis may include lifestyle modifications, medication, and surgical intervention when deemed necessary.

For patients with mild symptoms, conservative measures are recommended to relieve pain, such as mild analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications, weight reduction, lifestyle and activity modifications, physiotherapy for muscle strengthening, and injectable treatments into the knee joint (hyaluronic acid or PRP). Regular exercise and weight loss are of crucial importance in pain relief, as they significantly reduce the pressure exerted on the knees while strengthening the surrounding muscles. However, if conservative treatment does not provide the desired results, surgical management is recommended.

If surgery is required, the recommended method is total knee arthroplasty, meaning the replacement of the worn joint surfaces with artificial implants. Robotic-assisted knee arthroplasty is a minimally invasive technique that ensures maximum safety, minimal postoperative complications, and faster recovery compared to conventional methods. It is essential to choose an experienced and specialized physician who possesses both the necessary expertise and the appropriate technological equipment at their hospital. In this way, the patient can return more comfortably to daily activities, benefiting from improved range of motion and stable walking.

It is equally important for the patient to seek care from a reliable medical team with extensive experience in similar cases. This approach ensures the highest possible level of safety, optimal results, and minimization of postoperative pain.