Osteoarthritis of the Knee at a Young Age

Osteoarthritis of the knee in young people is often associated with a condition called osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a condition that occurs when the cartilage in the joints wears down and becomes thinner over time. Symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee in a young person can include knee pain, stiffness, swelling, and limited movement over time. It is important to consult an orthopedic specialist for diagnosis and treatment. Treatment options may include medications, physical therapy, exercise programs, weight management and surgical intervention when necessary.

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What is Osteoarthritis of the Knee at a Young Age?

It is a condition usually seen in individuals under the age of 40 and is also known as osteoarthritis. Knee arthritis occurs as a result of wear and deterioration of the cartilage on the knee joint surfaces. As cartilage is a tissue that protects the joint and reduces friction, this wear and deterioration can cause symptoms such as pain, stiffness and limitation of movement in the joint. Treatment of knee osteoarthritis in young people can vary depending on the severity of symptoms, the patient’s age, activity level and the progression of arthritis. Conservative treatment options include pain management, physical therapy, exercises and lifestyle changes, while surgical intervention may be required in advanced cases.

What are the Symptoms of Osteoarthritis of the Knee at a Young Age?

Knee Pain: Constant or occasional pain in the knee is the most common symptom. The pain usually increases during activity and eases slightly with rest. However, in advanced cases, pain may persist despite rest.

Stiffness in the Knee: People with arthritis in the knee usually experience a feeling of stiffness in the knee in the morning or after a long period of inactivity. This usually decreases after they first start moving.

Limitation of Movement in the Joint: As arthritis progresses, movements in the knee may be limited. Especially bending and straightening movements of the knee can be restricted.

Swelling or tenderness in the joint: As arthritis progresses, movements in the knee may be limited. Especially bending and straightening movements of the knee can be restricted.

Crepitation In some cases, people with arthritis in the knee may hear a crunching or crackling sound caused by the friction of the cartilage surfaces when the knee is moved or bent. These sounds are called crepitation.

Knee Sensitivity and Sensitivity to Touch: Due to damage to the cartilage surfaces in the knee, some areas may be painful or tender when touched or light pressure is applied.

Causes of Osteoarthritis of the Knee at a Young Age

Knee Pain: Constant or occasional pain in the knee is the most common symptom. The pain usually increases during activity and eases slightly with rest. However, in advanced cases, pain may persist despite rest.

Stiffness in the Knee :People with arthritis in the knee usually experience a feeling of stiffness in the knee in the morning or after a long period of inactivity. This usually decreases after they first start moving.

Limitation of Movement in the Joint: As arthritis progresses, movements in the knee may be limited. Especially bending and straightening movements of the knee can be restricted

Swelling or tenderness in the joint: Individuals with knee arthritis may experience mild swelling and tenderness around the joint.

Crepitation: In some cases, people with arthritis in the knee may hear a crunching or crackling sound caused by the friction of the cartilage surfaces when the knee is moved or bent. These sounds are called crepitation.

Knee Sensitivity and Sensitivity to Touch: Due to damage to the cartilage surfaces in the knee, some areas may be painful or tender when touched or light pressure is applied.

Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment at a Young Age

Osteoarthritis of the knee at a young age is a condition that usually occurs in people under the age of 40 and can progress if left untreated. Treatment methods usually aim to reduce symptoms, improve mobility and slow the progression of the disease.

  1. Medication Therapy: Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation. Your doctor may also recommend supplements such as chondroitin and glucosamine, which can help protect joint cartilage.
  2. Physical Therapy :Physiotherapists can develop exercise programs that strengthen the muscles around the knee and increase flexibility. This can help to balance the load on the knee and increase the range of motion.
  3. Weight Control: Being overweight can worsen the symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee. Weight loss through dietary changes and exercise can reduce stress on the knee.
  4. Knee Braces or Supportive Shoes: Specially designed knee braces or shoes stabilize the load on the knee and can reduce pain.
  5. Injections :Steroid or hyaluronic acid injections can relieve pain and inflammation in the knee. Regenerative treatments such as PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) can also be used.
  6. Surgical Intervention: Rarely, people with knee arthritis may require surgical options. For example, cartilage repair or replacement surgery may be considered.

Treatment options may vary depending on the individual’s symptoms, age, health status and severity of the disease. Therefore, it is important to consult a specialist to develop a personalized treatment plan.

Conclusion:

The most important point in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis is to determine an individual treatment plan that is suitable for the patient’s symptoms and condition. It is therefore important to consult with an orthopedist or physiotherapist and discuss appropriate treatment options.

Picture of Op. Dr. Özgür Oktay Nar

Op. Dr. Özgür Oktay Nar

Op. Dr. Özgür Oktay Nar, specialized in orthopedics and traumatology, is experienced in foot and ankle surgery, sports injuries and minimally invasive surgery. In his private practice, he offers personalized treatment plans to his patients and applies the most up-to-date treatment methods for a healthy and active life.

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