Knee Osteoarthritis

What Is Knee Osteoarthritis?

Knee osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage covering the joint gradually wears down, causing the bones to rub against each other. This can lead to knee pain, swelling, and stiffness. It is more common in older adults, but it can also occur in people who place heavy stress on their knees or have a history of knee injuries.

Causes and Risk Factors

  • Aging
  • Being overweight
  • Previous knee injury or knee surgery
  • Bow legs or other knee deformities
  • Genetics
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Symptoms to Watch For

  • Knee pain during strenuous activities, walking, or going up and down stairs
  • Morning joint stiffness
  • Knee swelling
  • Reduced walking distance

Non-Surgical Treatment

  • Weight loss
  • Physical therapy
  • Strengthening the thigh muscles
  • Pain-relieving medication
  • Intra-articular injections in some cases

When Is Surgery Recommended?

  • Severe pain despite comprehensive treatment
  • Difficulty walking
  • Significant knee deformity or bowing
  • Reduced quality of life
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How Is the Surgery Performed?

The surgical approach depends on the severity of the condition. Treatment options may include bone realignment surgery, arthroscopic surgery, or total knee replacement (Total Knee Replacement) to replace the worn-out joint surfaces, helping relieve pain and improve mobility.

Hospital Stay

Approximately 2–4 days

Recovery Time

  • Begin walking within 1 day after surgery
  • Use a cane temporarily
    Resume daily activities in approximately 6–8 weeks
  • Continue recovery for approximately 3–6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Knee osteoarthritis cannot restore the damaged cartilage to its original condition. However, treatment can help relieve pain, slow the progression of the condition, and improve quality of life.
If you experience persistent knee pain, joint stiffness, difficulty walking, or symptoms that do not improve after resting and taking medication, you should see a doctor for proper diagnosis and evaluation.
No. Most patients can be treated without surgery. Surgery is considered when symptoms are severe and significantly affect daily activities.
Most patients can start walking within 1 day after surgery, with close assistance and guidance from a physical therapist.
Yes. Appropriate exercises such as walking, swimming, or cycling, along with exercises to strengthen the thigh muscles, can help reduce pressure on the knee joint.
Yes. Weight loss can reduce pressure on the knee joint, relieve pain, and help slow the progression of knee osteoarthritis.

Medical Team

นพ. ปรัชญ์ กำลังสินเสริม

Prach Kamlangsinserm, M.D.

Orthopedic Surgery Specialized in Arthroscopic Surgery
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นพ. พัลลภ ถิระวานิช

Panlop Tirawanish, M.D.

Orthopedic Surgery Specialized in Endoscopic Spine Surgery
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พญ ชุติมา ลีวัชรารุ่งเจริญ

Chutima Leewatchararoonjaroen, M.D.

Anesthesiologist Specialized in Regional Anesthesia
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