Knee Osteoarthritis: Treatment Methods for Cartilage Regeneration

Knee pain, particularly due to osteoarthritis, significantly impacts the lives of many people, especially among middle-aged and older adults. The wear and inflammation of the joints are common issues that can lead to limited mobility and make daily activities more challenging. The source of the pain often lies in the thinning and wearing of cartilage, which causes the bones to rub against each other, resulting in continuous and prolonged discomfort.

Treatment of Knee Pain

The treatment of knee pain may require a variety of approaches. Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and weight loss, can be crucial in alleviating symptoms. Proper nutrition and physical therapy guided by a professional can also contribute to improving quality of life. Additionally, there are several medical interventions aimed at preserving cartilage and promoting regeneration. Below, we present these treatment options in detail.

Causes and Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, or arthrosis, is the most common problem affecting the knee joint, particularly in older age groups. The cartilage gradually thins, and this process causes pain, inflammation, and limited movement. The role of the cartilage covering the joints is undeniable, as it ensures smooth movement and protects the bones. When the cartilage wears down, the bones come into direct contact, leading to increased friction and pain.

In addition to arthrosis, arthritis (osteoarthritis) can also contribute to knee pain. These issues are particularly common in the population over 40, and in many cases, the pain is chronic, significantly affecting quality of life. Patients often report symptoms such as stiffness, swelling, or difficulty moving, all of which contribute to the increased difficulty of daily activities.

In the treatment of osteoarthritis, the most important factor is establishing an accurate diagnosis, as the causes of pain can depend on various factors, including genetic predisposition, previous injuries, or a high body mass index. During medical examinations, specialists use various methods to determine the extent of disease progression, which helps in developing an appropriate treatment plan.

Lifestyle Changes and Physical Therapy

Lifestyle changes are crucial in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Regular, low-impact exercises can greatly contribute to reducing pain and improving mobility. Activities such as swimming, cycling, or walking are gentle on the joints while strengthening the muscles.

Excess weight places significant stress on the knee joints, so weight loss can also help alleviate symptoms. Even a few kilograms of weight loss can bring noticeable improvement in pain. A proper diet rich in vitamins and minerals also plays an important role in maintaining cartilage health.

A physical therapy program guided by a professional provides an opportunity to overcome limitations in movement. During physical therapy, patients perform exercises aimed at stabilizing the knee and strengthening the surrounding muscles. This improves knee joint function, reduces pain, and makes daily activities easier.

Medical Treatment Options

There are several medical interventions available for treating osteoarthritis, aimed at reducing pain and promoting cartilage regeneration. One of the most well-known methods is hyaluronic acid injection, which is a fundamental component of cartilage. This substance improves joint lubrication, reduces friction and inflammation, thus contributing to pain relief.

The effects of hyaluronic acid injections generally last longer than traditional anti-inflammatory medications and do not irritate the stomach. During the treatment, the analgesic effect gradually develops and can last for up to eight months, improving the joint’s load capacity.

Platelet-rich plasma injections are another promising procedure that delivers bioactive substances derived from the patient’s own blood into the joint. This method stimulates the activity of cartilage cells and enhances the production of cartilage material, thus contributing to natural regeneration.

Shockwave therapy can also be beneficial in pain reduction, as it improves blood circulation and promotes the regeneration of damaged tissues. All these treatment options complement each other, and when applied in the right combination, they can significantly improve the quality of life for those suffering from knee pain.

Although there are many options for treating osteoarthritis, it is important for patients to understand that these treatments may not always achieve complete recovery. They cannot rebuild existing cartilage, but they can contribute to slowing the progression of the disease by reducing pain and protecting the existing cartilage.

Before starting treatment, it is advisable to consult a specialist who can help select the most appropriate therapeutic method, taking into account the patient’s individual condition and needs. The treatment of osteoarthritis is a complex process that, combined with appropriate lifestyle changes and medical interventions, can lead to significant improvement.