Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis: Common Causes, Stages and Treatments
Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It is categorized into four grades based on severity:
Grade 1 (mild), Grade 2 (moderate), Grade 3 (moderately severe), and Grade 4 (severe). Treatment options for knee osteoarthritis include lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, pain management with medications, joint injections like corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid, and in advanced cases (Grade 3 and 4), surgical interventions such as knee arthroscopy or knee replacement may be considered. A personalized treatment plan, often involving a combination of these options, is crucial in managing knee osteoarthritis and improving the patient's quality of life. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential for proper assessment and guidance regarding the most appropriate treatment approach.