Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of persistent knee pain.

It involves changes within the whole joint, including the articular cartilage, underlying bone and surrounding tissues. These changes become increasingly common as we get older, although the amount of change seen on an X-ray does not always correspond directly with the amount of pain someone experiences.

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Clinical Symptoms

Typical symptoms can include pain when walking or standing, difficulty with stairs, stiffness after sitting, reduced movement and sometimes swelling.

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Targeted Interventions

Exercise and strengthening are important components of managing knee osteoarthritis. Weight management, where appropriate, and modification of aggravating activities can also be helpful. When symptoms remain troublesome despite appropriate conservative treatment, an injection may be considered. Depending upon your individual circumstances, injection options can include corticosteroid, hyaluronic acid or Arthrosamid (iPAAG). These injections work in different ways and are not appropriate for everybody. The advantages, disadvantages, evidence, potential risks and costs of the different options should therefore be considered before deciding which, if any, is most appropriate for you. An injection cannot reverse osteoarthritis or regrow worn cartilage, but for some people it can reduce pain and improve function.

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Medical Resource: 

For further clinical guidelines on Knee Osteoarthritis (OA), view the official NHS Knee Osteoarthritis Guide

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