Know the types of arthritis that can affect your knees
Knee pain isn’t always the result of trauma, wear and tear from exercise, or age. They can be caused by arthritis, which can be characterized as inflammation of the joints. In a broad sense, it is the set of symptoms and signs of joint damage produced by different reasons and causes, from the wear and tear of cartilage to joint infections due to overuse. Learn more about problems that can affect your knees.
the types
Osteoarthritis (OA)
The most common form of arthritis (OA) is caused by the breakdown of the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones where they meet to form joints. Without the protective layer, bones collide, causing stiffness, pain, and loss of joint motion. The knee is one of the joints most affected by (OA).
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
Of autoimmune origin, chronic and inflammatory, it induces the immune system to mistakenly attack the membrane that covers the joints. The result can be joint damage, pain, swelling, inflammation, and loss of function. (RA) usually affects both knee joints. According to a study by the British government agency NHS – National Health Service, rheumatoid arthritis can also cause widespread inflammation throughout the body, carpal tunnel syndrome, cardiovascular disease and cervical myelopathy.
juvenile arthritis
It affects children and adolescents up to 16 years of age. It can cause permanent joint damage, affect growth, and cause inflammation of the eyes and internal organs. It is also a rheumatoid arthritis, but in this case it can go away with age.
Drip
It is a form of arthritis that occurs when excess uric acid (UA) builds up in the bloodstream. The acid forms into needle-shaped crystals in body tissues, including joints. The first symptom of gout is severe pain and swelling in the big toe. Future attacks may affect the knee.
Reactive arthritis
It is a chronic form of arthritis. It often occurs after an infection of the urinary or gastrointestinal system. The large joints are most affected, especially the shoulders, hips and knees.
Lyme disease
This infectious disease causes skin rashes, joint swelling, and flu-like symptoms. It is caused by the bite of a tick infected with a bacterium called B. burgdorferi. The knee is often the first joint affected by Lyme disease.
Lupus
It is also a chronic autoimmune disease. It causes the immune system to release blood proteins that attack healthy tissue. It can cause inflammation in the knees and other joints. The skin and some internal organs can also be affected by the inflammation.
infectious arthritis
Also called septic arthritis, it is caused by an infection of the joint due to bacteria that spread through the bloodstream to the joint. Sometimes it is caused by viruses or fungi. The knees are the most affected. Common knee injuries include dislocated or torn cartilage.
Symptoms
The main ones are:
- articolar pains;
- joint stiffness
- restriction of movement in the joints;
- joint inflammation and edema (swelling);
- warmth and redness of the skin around the joint.
Treatment
It depends on the type of arthritis the person has developed. Nonsurgical options include:
- weight control
- physical activity such as tai chi, walking, cycling and water exercises
- nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) prescribed by your orthopedic doctor to reduce pain and inflammation
- corticosteroid injections, under medical advice, to reduce inflammation
- doctor-prescribed antirheumatic drugs for (AR) but not for (OA)
- apply hot and cold compresses to relieve pain and swelling
- topical creams
- use a cane or walker to help with balance
- acupuncture
- cognitive behavioral therapy
- physiotherapy for the functional recovery of the joints, improving flexibility and resistance
Surgery
Surgery is indicated only as a last resort in more chronic cases, which require reconstruction of the affected joint or even its replacement. Sometimes it happens that mobility is lost to such an extent that it affects the patient’s quality of life.
Source: Terra
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
