han 10 million individuals in the United States suffer from Osteoarthritis. This form of osteoarthritis can create a lot of problems for you, and that is why we will discuss some treatment options here.

1.) Causes of Knee Osteoarthritis

This type of arthritis is characterized by the deterioration of the articular cartilage, which is also the main problem associated with the disease. Causes of this condition include:

A.) Excessive strain on the knee

B.) Ligament tear, bone fractures and meniscal injuries

C.) Genetics

D.) Obesity

E.) Problems with the bone layer underneath the cartilage

2.) Diagnosis of Knee Osteoarthritis

A.) X-rays are particularly helpful as they allow the doctor to determine whether there is a narrowing of the joint space and thus rule out other causes of painful knees.

B.) An MRI can also be done in cases where a detailed imaging is essential. Arthroscopic surgery is another procedure used to view the condition of the knee.

3.) Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis gradually progresses over a period of years. The primary symptoms of knee osteoarthritis include:

A.) Pain

B.) Stiffness

C.) Limited range of motion of the knee

D.) Swelling

The pain experienced as a result of knee osteoarthritis can be very severe especially following a heavy activity. The stiffness felt can be aggravated by prolonged sitting. As this form of arthritis gets more complicated, the discomfort can become more and more intense and become debilitating.

4.) Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis

Treatment of knee osteoarthritis is focused at managing the symptoms and the deterioration of the articular cartilage. Conventional pain medications such as acetaminophen can help relieve pain. NSAIDs are also very effective at relieving painful knees in osteoarthritis sufferers.

Other ways to help treat osteoarthritis include:

A.) Management of weight

B.) Application of topical cream

C.) Knee brace or support

D.) Joint protection techniques

E.) Hot and cold compress

F.) Glucosamine and Chondroitin supplementation

G.) Surgery

(If you are concerned about your current pain problems, and you are considering surgery, it is also wise to consult your physician.)

Early management and treatment of knee osteoarthritis is most beneficial. When you suffer from knee osteoarthritis, and it is treated early enough, then you have a better chance at effectively managing it.

5.) Using a Knee Brace to Manage Painful Knees due Osteoarthritis

The types of knee braces include:

A.) Single-Piece Sleeves: This brace made of neoprene, or drytex (an elastic-rubbery material), is the simplest type of support. This support is pulled on over the knee, in one piece. The kind of knee brace provides compression, and extra support to help treat mild to moderate osteoarthritis.

B.) An Unloader Knee Brace – This type of support is made from molded plastic and foam, or an elastic material. It is designed to ship stress away from the side of your knee that may be suffering due to damaged cartilage and alignment problems. This support is usually custom-fit to each individual patient with medial component osteoarthritis.

Knee supports for osteoarthritis can be very helpful and should not be neglected. Don’t look back wondering what you could have done conservatively to help treat your knee pain or alignement problems.

Thanks to Andrew Sims for contributing this article to our Arthritis blog:

Natural Arthritis Pain Relief