Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common orthopedic conditions affecting millions of people worldwide, especially those over the age of 50. It is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage in the knee joint wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. As the condition progresses, it can significantly affect one’s quality of life, making even simple tasks like walking or climbing stairs a challenge. Causes of Knee Osteoarthritis Knee osteoarthritis develops due to a combination of factors. Age is the most significant risk factor—cartilage naturally degenerates as people get older. However, several other factors can contribute: Previous injuries : Trauma or injuries such as fractures or ligament tears can accelerate the breakdown of cartilage. Obesity : Extra weight puts increased stress on the knee joints, hastening the wear and tear. Genetics : A family history of osteoarthritis can increase the likelihood of deve...