Osteoarthritis Knee: Understanding the Condition and Finding Lasting Relief

What is Osteoarthritis of the Knee?

Osteoarthritis of the knee (OA knee) is a common degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people, particularly those over 50. Medically, OA occurs when the cartilage that cushions the knee joint wears down, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Over time, the bones may rub against each other, leading to further damage and discomfort. In Singapore, where many lead active and demanding lifestyles, this condition is often linked to age, overuse, or injury.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis Knee

• Pain in the knee joint, which worsens with movement or after prolonged activity
• Stiffness in the knee, especially in the morning or after long periods of sitting
• Reduced range of motion or difficulty straightening the knee
• Swelling or warmth around the knee joint
• Cracking or popping sounds when moving the knee

Common Causes of Osteoarthritis Knee

Osteoarthritis is often caused by:

• Aging: As you get older, the cartilage in your joints naturally wears down, which leads to OA.
• Overuse or Repetitive Stress: Athletes, people who perform heavy physical work, or individuals with certain jobs are at risk of developing OA due to joint stress.
• Injuries: Past knee injuries, such as ligament tears or fractures, can accelerate cartilage degeneration.
• Obesity: Excess weight increases the load on the knee joint, contributing to faster cartilage wear.

Potentially Serious Causes of Knee Pain

While OA is common, knee pain can also be a sign of more serious conditions such as:

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition that can cause joint inflammation and damage.
• Infections: A knee infection can lead to severe pain, swelling, and fever, requiring immediate treatment.
• Tumors: Rarely, tumors or growths in the knee can cause pain and swelling.

The Importance of Imaging

Imaging techniques like X-rays, MRIs, and ultrasounds are crucial in diagnosing the exact cause of your knee pain. Without proper imaging, treatments such as painkillers, physiotherapy, or massage may not address the root issue, leading to ineffective relief. For instance, while OA is common, it’s important to rule out other causes such as infections or fractures that may require different treatments.

At The Pain Relief Clinic, we offer affordable, timely scans that can help confirm your diagnosis in under one working day. If you’ve been prescribed treatments that haven’t worked, we also offer a $50 second opinion consultation to ensure you get the best care.

Why Choose Us?

• Non-invasive, targeted treatments for long-term relief
• Quick, affordable imaging to accurately diagnose your condition
• Medisave and insurance-friendly treatment options

Visit Us If You Are:

• Frustrated with ineffective treatments
• Seeking a faster, clearer diagnosis with imaging
• Wanting a second opinion before surgery