According to Dr. Rajesh Kumar, Musculoskeletal Specialist, Fortis Hospital (India), knee arthritis is a common condition that can cause pain and seriously affect the quality of life if not treated promptly. This condition often occurs when cartilage is degenerated, leading to stiffness, pain and swelling. To avoid permanent damage, it is extremely important to recognize warning signs early. Here are 5 warning signs of knee arthritis that you should not ignore.
Continuous knee pain or when exercising
One of the main signs of knee arthritis is frequent pain in the knee area, especially when you are moving, climbing stairs or standing for long periods of time. The pain can be mild or severe, depending on the severity of the inflammation.
swelling or knee inflammation
If you notice that your pillow is swollen or feels hot, it may be a sign of inflammation. This swelling is caused by inflammatory flu accumulating in the joints.
stiff joints or difficulty moving
Knee arthritis can make you feel stiff, uncomfortable with bending or straightening your knees. This is especially evident in the morning when you just wake up and start exercising.
Screaming in the knee joint
Arthritis can damage cartilage and cause grinding or complaining in the joints as you move. This is a sign of joint wear or a change in its structure.
Reduced physical activity
Knee arthritis can reduce normal mobility and function. You may find it difficult to participate in sports activities or even daily work, due to knee pain and limited mobility.
Advice and treatment methods
Dr. Rajesh Kumar says that if you experience any of these signs, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis can help prevent further damage to the knee joint and help you find the right treatment. Treatment methods include physical therapy, painkillers or surgery, depending on the severity of the disease.
In addition to medical treatment, you can also make some lifestyle changes to control the symptoms of knee arthritis. These changes may include losing weight, avoiding high-impact activities, and choosing shoes that support your knees well. Doing exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint is also very helpful in improving mobility and reducing pain.