Progression Phases of Knee Pain: Understanding the Journey
The most prevalent form of arthritis, osteoarthritis, occurs when the cartilage in your joints begins to degenerate due to wear and tear. Given that the knees bear the brunt of your body's weight and are frequently overused, knee osteoarthritis has become a common issue in many households. Consider all the elderly individuals you know who suffer from knee problems – a significant portion of them likely have knee osteoarthritis. As you age, your knee joints naturally start to deteriorate, and any previous injuries can exacerbate the condition. Women over the age of 55 are particularly prone to knee osteoarthritis, being three times more likely to develop it than men in the same age group. This condition is progressive, meaning it worsens over time, with symptoms such as pain, swelling, and stiffness becoming more pronounced. Let's delve into the stages of osteoarthritis and the corresponding symptoms and treatments. STAGE 1: MINOR At this initial stage, minor damage to the kne...