What is knee osteoarthritis

In a normal knee joint, movement occurs between the thigh bone and tibia bone, by the bones rolling and sliding against each other. This is possible because the bones are covered with a smooth surface of cartilage.

If the surface of the cartilage breaks or wears down, the bones can't slide against each other. Causes may be congestion, due to, for example, heavy work or being overweight. Other factors, such as heredity may also play a role.

In fact, compared to how widespread osteoarthritis is, we know surprisingly little about the causes. It is estimated that approximately 60,000 people each year go to their doctors with symptoms of knee osteoarthritis. Approximately 9,000 people have knee joint replacement surgery each year.

Besides surgical treatment, increased attention and focus is now being placed on how to avoid or delay knee joint replacement surgery. Knee joint replacement surgery is an effective and safe treatment of knee osteoarthritis. However, it is a comprehensive operation, which is not without risks. Every so often, the operation does not have the desired effect.

Therefore, it will often be a good idea to first try other, less extensive forms of treatment before deciding on surgery. For example, if you are overweight, it will often help the knee pain if you lose weight; just as physical exercise frequently has good effect.