Knee Pain – Osteoarthritis (OA)

Common Causes of Knee Pain: Part 1 –Osteoarthritis (OA)

What is Osteoarthritis?

OA is a common condition that affects some joints of the body (3) and is something that we see frequently at Valued Health Osteopathy. Knee pain can have many causes, however one of the most common conditions behind knee pain, particularly in adults; is Osteoarthritis (3).

Osteoarthritis causes structural changes within a joint, which results in pain and a loss of function. OA is the most common type of arthritis affecting more than 250 million adults (1). OA is a progressive joint disease that is affected by multiple factors including biomechanical, genetic, inflammatory, and hormonal factors (1). It is important to note that it is not just an ‘older persons’ disease. (3)

Osteoarthritis can be associated with pain however, there is a high variability in the level of pain. (3) Importantly, pain does not typically correlate with the degree of change in joints. (3)

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis 

Stiffness

Pain associated with movement

Joint swelling

Muscle weakness

Joint instability

Reduced range of movement and

Sounds within the joints. (3)

Risk factors for Osteoarthritis

Research suggests that there are multiple risk factors for OA and they can include:

Obesity

Previous significant injury to the joint

Increasing age

Repetitive movements associated with an occupation

Genetics and

Gender. (3)

So how can we help patients that do have symptomatic knee OA?

1. Education: Educating patients on what Osteoarthritis (OA) actually is, how it can be managed and that people with knee OA can still thrive in life is the first line of action (2).
2. Exercise is an important and effective part of any OA management plan and can be useful in trying to reduce pain and improve mobility. (3) Exercise including strength training, stretching, aerobic and balance programs should typically be included in an exercise program for those with OA. (3)
3. Diet: Generally a healthy and balanced diet is recommended for those with OA. Including healthy eating habits within your lifestyle can be beneficial for pain and functional outcomes associated with OA. For detailed assistance or support surrounding dietary changes, your GP or dietician would be a great place to start. (2)

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References:

1. 1. 2.3. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2013 Sep;21(9):1145-53. doi: 10.1016/j.joca.2013.03.018. Luks, Dr H. “10 Recommendations To Thrive With Osteoarthritis of the Knee,” Physio Network. Available at: https://www.physio-network.com/blog/10- recommendations-to-thrive-with-osteoarthritis-of-the-knee/ (Accessed: 2022).
   2. Bone Joint Surg Am. 2018 Jan 17;100(2):131-137. doi: 10.2106/JBJS.16.01071.
   3. Arthritis. Osteoarthritis, Reviewed on: 21-08-2019, Better Health Channel, https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/osteoarthritis

Make an appointment today – Book online!

(03) 9570 9061

www.valuedhealth.com.au

You do not need a referral to see one of our friendly Osteopaths at Valued Health Osteopathy. We have a very good relationship with many surrounding doctors, other health practitioners and personal trainers in the local community of Bentleigh East , Bentleigh, Ormond, McKinnon, Oakleigh, Carnegie, Caulfield, Moorabbin, Murrumbeena, Brighton, Clayton and Clarinda.

Valued Health Osteopathy offers Osteopathy, Clinical Pilates, Infant & Children Osteopathy, Pelvic Health Osteopathy, Exercise Rehabilitation and Strength & Conditioning. Valued Health Osteopathy is open 6 days a week with early morning and evening appointments.

Valued Health Osteopathy is located at 3/658 Centre Road, Bentleigh East, Melbourne, Victoria, 3165.

Valued Health Osteopathy | Osteopathy Australia

Osteopath Bentleigh East, Osteopath Bentleigh, Osteopath Ormond, Osteopath McKinnon, Osteopath Moorabbin, Osteopath Murrumbeena, Osteopath Oakleigh, Osteopath Carnegie, Osteopath Caulfield, Osteopath Clayton, Osteopath Brighton and Osteopath Cheltenham, Osteopath Dingley, Osteopath Beaumaris, Osteopath Melbourne.