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Knee Osteoarthritis
Wear of the cartilage in the knee joint causes pain, stiffness and difficulty walking. Alongside exercise and medicine, an injection into the joint, such as PRP (platelet-rich plasma), may be considered for suitable patients.
About this condition
The soft cushioning cartilage beside the bones of the knee joint gradually starts to wear away. This condition is called osteoarthritis. Ageing is the main reason the knee cartilage thins, but it can develop faster if you are overweight or after an old injury.
Treatment
In the early stage, treatment aims mainly to reduce pain and keep the knee moving. Exercise that strengthens the muscles around the knee, weight control and painkillers or anti-inflammatory medicine as needed are helpful. For suitable patients, an injection into the joint such as platelet-rich plasma or a corticosteroid is given on the doctor's advice. If the joint is severely worn, replacement may be considered.
Common symptoms
- Pain in the knee joint, and pain when bending down
- Difficulty walking after sitting for a long time
- Stiffness in the knee in the morning that eases quickly
- A clicking sound when walking, or a swollen knee
When to see a doctor
- A swollen knee, or fever with pain, may be an infection or a problem with the bursa
- Seek treatment quickly if the knee suddenly locks or you fall heavily on it
- If the pain persists for a long time and you cannot walk, you must see a doctor
For knee pain, regular exercise and weight control bring more long-term benefit than medicine alone.
Related services
Would you like to see a doctor?
Send a request online and the chamber will call to confirm the time. You can also call the chamber directly for a serial.
