Doctronic navigation menu Log In
Doctronic navigation menu
Contents
  • Understanding Knee Arthritis
  • Common Causes of Knee Arthritis
  • Risk Factors to Consider
  • The Role of Synovial Inflammation

What Causes Knee Arthritis?

What Causes Knee Arthritis?

The Big Picture

Knee arthritis is a chronic condition that causes pain and inflammation in the knee joint. Discover the underlying causes and factors contributing to this widespread issue.
Contents
  • Understanding Knee Arthritis
  • Common Causes of Knee Arthritis
  • Risk Factors to Consider
  • The Role of Synovial Inflammation

Understanding Knee Arthritis

Knee arthritis occurs when the protective cartilage in the knee joint wears down over time. This condition leads to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee. Common types of knee arthritis include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis.

Common Causes of Knee Arthritis

Knee arthritis can be caused by a variety of factors. Age, overuse, and injuries are common culprits. Additionally, autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis can attack the joint lining, causing chronic inflammation and pain.
Knee arthritis is a chronic condition characterized by the deterioration of cartilage in the knee joint, leading to pain, inflammation, and restricted movement.

Risk Factors to Consider

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing knee arthritis. These include obesity, genetics, and previous knee injuries. Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can help reduce these risks and keep your knees healthy.

The Role of Synovial Inflammation

In arthritis, the synovium, or joint lining, becomes inflamed, exacerbating pain and swelling. This inflammation can lead to further joint damage if left untreated. Managing synovial inflammation is crucial for controlling arthritis symptoms.

FAQs

What is knee arthritis?

Knee arthritis is a condition where the joint cartilage wears down, causing pain and swelling.

What causes knee arthritis?

Common causes include aging, injuries, and autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis.

What are the risk factors for knee arthritis?

Risk factors include obesity, genetics, and previous knee injuries.

How can I reduce my risk of knee arthritis?

Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can help reduce your risk.

What role does synovial inflammation play?

Inflamed synovium contributes to pain and swelling in knee arthritis.

The Bottom Line

Understanding the causes of knee arthritis can help you take steps to prevent or manage this painful condition.
Curious about your risk for knee arthritis? Chat with Doctronic for personalized advice!
Additional References
  1. McEwen C. Multicenter evaluation of synovectomy in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. J Rheumatol 1988; 15:765.
  2. Triantafyllou SJ, Hanks GA, Handal JA, Greer RB 3rd. Open and arthroscopic synovectomy in hemophilic arthropathy of the knee. Clin Orthop Relat Res 1992; :196.
  3. Rydholm U, Elborgh R, Ranstam J, et al. Synovectomy of the knee in juvenile chronic arthritis. J Bone Joint Surg Br 1986; 68:223.
  4. Doets HC, Bierman BT, von Soesbergen RM. Synovectomy of the rheumatoid knee does not prevent deterioration. Acta Orthop Scand 1989; 60:523.
  5. Ogilvie-Harris DJ, Basinski A. Arthroscopic synovectomy of the knee for rheumatoid arthritis. Arthroscopy 1991; 7:91.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.