Osteoarthritis is a common joint disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, particularly older adults. Among the most commonly affected joints are the hips and knees. Hip and knee osteoarthritis can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. In this blog, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for hip and knee osteoarthritis, as well as address some common myths.

What Causes Hip and Knee Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis develops when the protective cartilage between the bones decrease. Several factors contribute to the development of hip and knee osteoarthritis such as:

1. Age, as the risk of developing osteoarthritis increases with age.

2. Genetics, as there may be a genetic predisposition to osteoarthritis, with certain individuals being more susceptible to joint degeneration.

3. Joint Injury, as previous injuries to the hips or knees, such as fractures or ligament tears, can predispose individuals to osteoarthritis later in life.

Symptoms of hip and knee osteoarthritis can vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

1. Persistent pain in the hip or knee joint, especially during or after movement.

2. Joint stiffness, particularly in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity.

3. Swelling around the affected joint may occur.

4. Reduced range of motion, as Osteoarthritis can limit the range of motion in the hip or knee joint, making it difficult to perform daily activities like walking or climbing stairs.

5. Joint Instability, as some individuals may experience a sensation of joint instability or a feeling that the joint is giving way.

There are various myths surrounding the treatment of osteoarthritis. Some of the myths surrounding treatment include:

1. If I have pain, I need to rest: It’s common to think that if you are experiencing pain you should stop and rest. However, it’s actually the opposite of what you should do. When you experience pain you want to try to keep active in order to increase your tolerance.
2. I don’t want to exercise as it hurts: Exercise is one of the most important things you can do if you have hip and knee pain. In fact, research has shown that exercise can significantly improve someone’s pain and functional abilities. Exercises should include aerobic exercise such as swimming and walking, as well as stretching and strengthening exercises. It is common that when you start a new activity such as exercise you are likely to be sore at the beginning. It is important that exercises are given to you by a qualified healthcare provider such as a chiropractor who can tailor them to your specific needs. If you experience a lot of discomfort, you can do relative rest rather than complete rest, which is continuing to do an activity within your tolerance but at a reduced intensity or duration.
3. I have osteoarthritis so I’ll need surgery: A common belief is that if you have osteoarthritis, you will need surgery. Although surgery is needed for some people, surgery is not necessary for everyone. The current best practice is to do a trial of conservative care, including exercise and manual therapy, to see how well it can reduce your symptoms. Speaking with your healthcare professional to understand which treatment option is the best for you is important.

If you require surgery, it is important to perform rehabilitation exercises before and after surgery. Exercises performed after surgery are called post-operative rehabilitation which help build back the strength in your joint. There is a lot of research also suggesting the importance of pre-operative rehabilitation, that is rehabilitation exercises before surgery, and the positive effect it can have for you. The exercises that you perform before your surgery will help increase your strength and help you succeed following a hip or knee joint replacement.

Conclusion

Hip and knee osteoarthritis are common degenerative joint disorders that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for osteoarthritis are crucial for effectively managing the condition and maintaining joint function. By adopting lifestyle modifications, seeking appropriate medical care, and adhering to a comprehensive treatment plan, individuals with hip and knee osteoarthritis can improve their symptoms and return to their daily activities that they enjoy.

If you’re suffering from hip or knee osteoarthritis, contact Dr. Plener today to start your road to recovery. You will receive a comprehensive assessment and develop a greater understanding of your hip or knee osteoarthritis. Dr. Plener will discuss with you individualised treatment options to help reduce your pain and get back to living your life to the fullest.

Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and not intended to replace medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, make sure to consult your healthcare provider.