Knee Pain & Arthritis

Overview

Knee pain is one of the most common health concerns we see at Sanjeevi Hospital, affecting millions of people across India. From young adults with sports injuries to our respected elders managing age-related wear and tear, knee discomfort can significantly impact your quality of life. In many Indian households, daily activities like sitting on the floor, climbing stairs, or walking to the local market become challenging when arthritis sets in. Arthritis is essentially the inflammation of one or more joints, where the protective cartilage that cushions your bones starts to thin out. This leads to friction, swelling, and pain. While it is a chronic condition, it does not mean you have to stop living an active life. Early intervention, specialized physiotherapy, and modern medical management can help you regain your mobility. Understanding the root cause of your knee pain is the first step toward a pain-free future, ensuring you can participate in family gatherings and daily chores with ease and comfort.

Symptoms to watch for

• Persistent pain that worsens after physical activity or long periods of sitting
• Noticeable swelling or puffiness around the knee joint
• Feeling of stiffness, especially first thing in the morning or after resting
• A grinding or popping sensation (crepitus) when moving the leg
• Difficulty in fully straightening or bending the knee joint
• Warmth or redness in the skin over the kneecap
• Weakness or instability, feeling like the knee might 'give way'
• Difficulty climbing stairs or getting up from a low chair
• Visible deformity or a 'bow-legged' appearance over time

Causes & risk factors

• Osteoarthritis, the most common 'wear and tear' type seen with aging
• Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition causing joint inflammation
• Previous knee injuries like ligament tears (ACL) or meniscus damage
• Excess body weight which puts additional pressure on weight-bearing joints
• Repetitive stress from occupations that require frequent kneeling or squatting
• Genetic factors or a family history of joint problems
• Gout, caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint
• Post-traumatic arthritis developing years after a physical accident

Diagnosis

• Thorough physical examination of the knee for range of motion and stability
• X-rays to check for bone spurs and narrowing of joint space
• MRI scans to view soft tissues like ligaments, tendons, and cartilage
• Blood tests to check for inflammatory markers or rheumatoid factors
• Joint fluid aspiration to rule out infections or gout
• Review of medical history and daily lifestyle habits
• Ultrasound imaging to check for cysts or fluid accumulation

Treatment options

Prevention & self-care

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the daily stress on your knee joints
• Incorporate low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling into your routine
• Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes that provide good arch support
• Warm up your muscles with light stretching before any physical activity
• Avoid sitting in the same position for too long; take frequent movement breaks
• Use proper techniques during exercise or heavy lifting to avoid sudden twists
• Eat a balanced diet rich in Calcium and Vitamin D for better bone health
• Keep hydrated and use traditional Indian anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric in your meals