Learn how knee osteoarthritis develops, recognize its early signs, and discover the medical and surgical treatments available at UMC Hospital, Navi Mumbai.
What is Knee Osteoarthritis?
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common, non‑infectious joint disease where the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones gradually wears away. Over time the joint may become painful, stiff, and less able to support daily activities.
Why does it happen?
- Age: The risk increases after 45 years.
- Genetics: A family history of OA can predispose you.
- Weight: Extra body weight adds stress to the knee joint.
- Previous injury or surgery: Trauma to the knee can accelerate cartilage loss.
- Occupational stress: Jobs that involve prolonged kneeling or heavy lifting (e.g., construction, farming) increase risk.
Common symptoms to watch for
- Gradual onset of knee pain, especially after activity or at the end of the day.
- Stiffness in the morning or after sitting for a long time.
- Swelling or a feeling of warmth around the joint.
- Reduced range of motion – difficulty bending or straightening the knee fully.
- Occasional “locking” or a sensation that the knee is giving way.
How is it diagnosed?
At UMC Hospital, the orthopaedic team uses a combination of:
- Clinical examination – checking alignment, stability, and range of motion.
- Radiographs (X‑rays) – to see cartilage loss, bone spurs, and joint space narrowing.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – if detailed soft‑tissue assessment is needed.
Management options
1. Lifestyle and self‑care
- Weight management: Losing even 5‑10 % of body weight can reduce knee load by up to 40 %.
- Low‑impact exercises: Walking, swimming, and cycling strengthen the muscles around the knee without excessive stress.
- Physiotherapy: Tailored strengthening and flexibility programs improve joint stability.
- Assistive devices: A cane or a knee brace can off‑load the joint during painful episodes.
2. Medications
- Paracetamol or NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) for pain relief.
- Topical gels containing diclofenac or capsaicin.
- Intra‑articular steroid injections for short‑term inflammation control.
3. Advanced procedures (if conservative care fails)
- Viscosupplementation: Hyaluronic acid injections to improve joint lubrication.
- Platelet‑rich plasma (PRP): Autologous blood‑derived therapy gaining popularity in Indian orthopaedic practice.
- Knee replacement surgery (Total Knee Arthroplasty): Considered when pain interferes with daily life despite optimal medical therapy. UMC Hospital offers modern cemented and cement‑less implants with fast‑track recovery protocols.
What to expect after knee replacement
- Hospital stay: 2‑3 days (often less with our fast‑track program).
- Physiotherapy starts on day 1 to regain motion.
- Full weight‑bearing is usually allowed within a week.
- Most patients return to routine activities within 3‑4 months.
When to seek help at UMC Hospital
If you experience persistent knee pain, swelling that does not subside with rest, or difficulty performing everyday tasks such as climbing stairs, schedule an appointment with our orthopaedic specialists. Early intervention can delay or avoid surgery.
UMC Hospital, Navi Mumbai
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