What Is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis, often seen in older adults, is a degenerative condition affecting the knee joint. Dr. Narendra Vaidya, Chairman of Lokmanya Group of Hospitals and Chief Joint Replacement Surgeon, explains that osteoarthritis primarily occurs due to wear and tear over the years, resulting in pain and reduced mobility.

Anatomy Of The Knee Joint

The knee comprises three bones:

• The femur (thigh bone)
• The tibia (shinbone)
• The patella (kneecap)

These bones are connected by ligaments and cushioned by cartilage and meniscus, enabling smooth movement. However, as age progresses, this cartilage begins to wear out, leading to osteoarthritis.

Stages Of Osteoarthritis

Dr. Vaidya elaborates on the four stages of osteoarthritis:

• Stage 1: Cartilage begins to soften, causing mild discomfort.
• Stage 2: Cartilage fibers start breaking down.
• Stage 3: Small pits or cracks appear on the cartilage surface.
• Stage 4: The cartilage wears out completely, leading to deformities and severe pain.

Causes And Risk Factors

• Aging: Natural degeneration accelerates after 30-40 years of age.
• Obesity: Excess weight exerts 5-6 times the pressure on knees during walking, and 8-10 times during squatting.
• Lifestyle: Frequent use of Indian-style toilets and squatting increases joint stress.

Preventive Measures

Preventing osteoarthritis begins with maintaining a healthy lifestyle:

• Weight Management: Reducing weight minimizes pressure on joints.
• Balanced Diet: Include Vitamin D supplements to support joint health.
• Regular Exercise: Strengthen muscles around the knee to provide better support.

Modern Treatment Approaches

Non-Surgical Options

1. Viscosupplementation Injections: These lubricating injections provide relief in early stages.
2. Physiotherapy: Helps in managing pain and improving mobility.

Surgical Interventions

1. Laser-Assisted Arthroscopy: Used for smoothing the joint surface in moderate cases.
2. Robotic-Assisted Surgeries: Advanced robotic techniques ensure precise and minimally invasive procedures.

Partial And Total Knee Replacement

In severe cases (Stage 4 or 5), joint replacement is often the only option. Recent advancements include:

• Partial Knee Replacement: Only the damaged compartment is replaced, preserving ligaments and other structures.
• Robotic Total Knee Replacement: Ensures greater accuracy and reduces complications.

Benefits Of Robotic Surgeries

• Minimal incisions
• Faster recovery (patients can walk the next day)
• Long-lasting implants (up to 30 years)

Conclusion

Osteoarthritis can significantly impact daily life, but with timely intervention and advanced treatments like robotic surgeries, patients can regain mobility and lead pain-free lives. Early prevention and consultation are key to maintaining joint health.