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Osteoarthritis – Arthritis of the Knee
What is it?
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease that affects the knee joint. OA is a common form of arthritis and is often characterized by the breakdown of cartilage. Cartilage is the smooth rubbery material that covers and cushions the end of the bone. Along with the menisci, it acts as a shock absorber when weight is put on the joint. When cartilage becomes thin and wears down, the ends of the bones rub together resulting in pain and loss of movement.
What causes it?
Although the exact cause remains unknown, contributing factors include:
- Aging
- Previous injury to the joint
- Genetic disposition
- Excess weight
What does treatment involve? (may include 1 or all of the following)
- Heat/cold Therapy
- Physiotherapy – individualized exercise program
- Chiropractic
- Arthroscopic Surgery
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Please consult a physician for a complete diagnosis of your injury.
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