I have osteoarthritis in my knees. Can you explain in simple terms what this means?
Osteoarthritis is a disease that affects the body’s joints. In this condition, the surfaces of the joint are damaged and the joint is not able to move smoothly.
The covering at the ends of the bones, called the cartilage, gradually roughens and becomes thin. The bone underneath the cartilage reacts by growing thicker.
All the tissues within the joint are more active than normal as the body tries to repair the damage; the bone at the edge of the joint grows outwards, forming bony spurs called osteophytes.
The synovial membrane may produce extra fluid, causing the joint to swell. The capsule and ligaments around the joint also thicken and contract.
Osteoarthritis mainly affects the large weight-bearing joints in the body.
Apart from pain my knees can also be very stiff, particularly after periods of inactivity.
The main symptoms of osteoarthritis are pain and stiffness. Typically, the knees may feel stiff at particular times such as first thing in the morning or after a period of rest.
Mobilising or gentle exercise usually ease stiffness. Pain may be felt around the joint or at the front and sides of the knee. It may be exacerbated by certain movements or activities, such as climbing stairs.
The pain is usually better with rest. Osteoarthritis pain can vary from day to day.
Apart from painkillers what else might help?
The treatment plan for osteoarthritis may include a combination of lifestyle changes such as losing weight and exercising, as well as pain medication.
Exercise does not have to be too strenuous as even gentle yoga has been shown to result in improvements in controlling pain and fatigue, as well as enhancing joint mobility. Some medication such as steroids and supplements can be injected into the joint to provide pain relief.
Physiotherapy will provide exercises to condition muscles and improve flexibility and joint mobility. An occupational therapist will be able to advise on changes to routines and the environment to reduce the stresses put on joints during daily activities.
Surgery may involve resurfacing of the damaged joint surfaces, or replacement of the joint may be considered when knee pain is severe and other treatments have not provided relief.
Arthritis Ireland provides information and support for people with arthritis. It can be contacted on 01-6618188 or 1890-252846, arthritisireland.ie.