Animation courtesy Visual Health Solutions, Inc.

Osteoarthritis of the knee facts:

Osteoarthritis of the knee is a condition that affects millions of Americans annually. It is characterized by the breakdown, or erosion, of the cartilage that provides a lubricated and cushioned surface within the joint to allow proper function. When the cartilage is not in tact, the bone of the the thigh (femur) and shin (tibia) that make up the joint may come in contact and grind with each other and cause pain and decreased functionality of the joint.

• Most common form of arthritis in the knee
  
• Second most common form of disability in the US
• May cause bone spurs
• Range of motion of a knee with Osteoarthritis can be improved through manual therapy
  

Image courtesy of Medical News Today

Symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee

• Sensation of weakness  or "buckling"
  
• Stiffness resulting in difficulty bending or straightening the joint
• A pattern in pain or swelling such as after sitting or resting for significant times or during certain activities such as bending or climbing stairs

Risk Factors

• Increased age
  
• Increased weight
• Previous injury to the joint
• Weakened muscles surrounding the joint
• Overuse
  

Resources:

• Arthritis.org
• Ortho Info
• Artiritis Health
• Medical News Today
• Knee extension and stiffness in osteoarthritic and normal knees: a videofluroscopic analysis of the effect of a single session of manual therapy. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, 2014 Volume:44 Issue:4 Pages:273–282 DOI: 10.2519/jospt.2014.4710

What our therapists recommend:

It's time to talk to your doctor when:

• You have pain when waking up in the morning that lasts longer than twenty minutes
• You are unable to walk up or down stairs or have significant difficulty with your daily activities you enjoy doing

Recommended exercises* to reduce strain and strengthen the joint:

• Low-impact activities such as aquatic therapy, Pilates, and cycling  
  
• Single leg raise as shown below:

*The exercises recommended here are for educational purposes only and not meant to replace a Physical Therapist's care. Please consult with a medical provider before beginning a new exercise regimen and if any of the above activity examples cause pain. Click the button below to schedule an appointment with us to get personalized exercise recommendations for your injury

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