Understanding Knee Disorders and Treatment Options

Dr. Narendra Vaidya, Chairman and Head of Orthopedic Surgery, has over 35 years of experience treating knee and spinal disorders. In a recent video, he discusses knee joint problems and the advanced surgical treatments available at Lokmanya Hospital.

The Importance of Joint Mobility

Dr. Vaidya begins by emphasizing the importance of mobility in human life. He states that when a person loses the ability to move, whether due to injury or joint disorder, it becomes one of the most distressing situations. People become dependent on others for basic tasks, such as walking to the bathroom. Preventing these issues is essential, and this is where early diagnosis and treatment come into play.

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

Dr. Vaidya stresses that prevention is crucial when it comes to joint disorders. The common adage "prevention is better than cure" holds true, and his focus is on educating the public about how to avoid these problems. Lokmanya Hospital has launched an informative series on knee health, available on YouTube and other social media platforms. The primary goal is to raise awareness about modern treatment options and how to prevent knee disorders.

Understanding the Knee Joint

The knee joint is a complex structure made up of three main bones: the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap). Dr. Vaidya explains that the knee joint is categorized as a synovial joint, which allows for movement. The patella, a sesamoid bone, moves in conjunction with the femur and tibia. This joint is held together by four important ligaments:

• Collateral Ligaments: Located on the sides of the knee.
• ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament): Found inside the knee.
• PCL (Posterior Cruciate Ligament): Located at the back of the knee.

These ligaments provide flexibility and stability, allowing for a full range of motion. The smooth cartilage and meniscus in the knee joint help cushion the bones and facilitate easy movement, reducing friction.

Knee Joint Health and Aging

As we age, the knee joint tends to become more prone to wear and tear. Cartilage begins to degrade, and the smooth movement of the knee becomes compromised. Dr. Vaidya explains that the degradation of cartilage leads to pain and stiffness, making movement difficult. This is a natural part of aging, but with proper care, the effects can be minimized.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dr. Vaidya emphasizes the importance of understanding knee joint health and seeking timely treatment. The goal is to educate the public about knee disorders, prevention methods, and modern treatment options to ensure better mobility and quality of life.