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What Causes Knee Arthritis?
Published: Sep 17, 2024
Knee arthritis is a chronic condition that causes pain and inflammation in the knee joint. Discover the underlying causes and factors contributing to this widespread issue.
Understanding Knee Arthritis
Knee arthritis occurs when the protective cartilage in the knee joint wears down over time. This condition leads to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee. Common types of knee arthritis include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis.
Common Causes of Knee Arthritis
Knee arthritis can be caused by a variety of factors. Age, overuse, and injuries are common culprits. Additionally, autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis can attack the joint lining, causing chronic inflammation and pain.
Risk Factors to Consider
Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing knee arthritis. These include obesity, genetics, and previous knee injuries. Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can help reduce these risks and keep your knees healthy.
The Role of Synovial Inflammation
In arthritis, the synovium, or joint lining, becomes inflamed, exacerbating pain and swelling. This inflammation can lead to further joint damage if left untreated. Managing synovial inflammation is crucial for controlling arthritis symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Knee arthritis is a condition where the joint cartilage wears down, causing pain and swelling.
Common causes include aging, injuries, and autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis.
Risk factors include obesity, genetics, and previous knee injuries.
Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can help reduce your risk.
Inflamed synovium contributes to pain and swelling in knee arthritis.
The Bottom Line
Understanding the causes of knee arthritis can help you take steps to prevent or manage this painful condition.
References
- McEwen C. Multicenter evaluation of synovectomy in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. J Rheumatol 1988; 15:765.
- Triantafyllou SJ, Hanks GA, Handal JA, Greer RB 3rd. Open and arthroscopic synovectomy in hemophilic arthropathy of the knee. Clin Orthop Relat Res 1992; :196.
- Rydholm U, Elborgh R, Ranstam J, et al. Synovectomy of the knee in juvenile chronic arthritis. J Bone Joint Surg Br 1986; 68:223.
- Doets HC, Bierman BT, von Soesbergen RM. Synovectomy of the rheumatoid knee does not prevent deterioration. Acta Orthop Scand 1989; 60:523.
- Ogilvie-Harris DJ, Basinski A. Arthroscopic synovectomy of the knee for rheumatoid arthritis. Arthroscopy 1991; 7:91.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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