Multiple factors linked to knee degeneration

Millions of people around the world have osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative joint disease that significantly affects their mobility and quality of life. OA is the most prevalent form of arthritis and is marked by the degradation and subsequent loss of cartilage in the joints, including the knees, hips, and hands of older persons.

Patients with OA commonly report pain and stiffness in their joints along with difficulty in movement, possibly leading to disability. Among the different forms of OA, knee OA is the most common in Malaysia since it affects up to 20 percent of adults. [Mal J Med Health Sci 2017;13(2):7–15]

The Beijing Osteoarthritis Study revealed that older Asian women have a higher risk for knee OA compared to hip OA. [Arthritis Rheum 2001;44(9):2065–2071] This is likely due to differences in the body structure, lifestyle choices, and environmental influences. For example, squatting, eating habits, obesity, and repetitive movements may cause more stress on the knee joints and lead to the development of knee OA.

“A family history of minor joint abnormalities or hypermobility could increase one’s susceptibility to knee OA,” said Dr Yuen Jin Chuan, a consultant orthopedic, trauma, arthroplasty and robotic surgeon. Women are at a higher risk of knee OA compared to men due to hormonal factors and differences in joint biomechanics. Symptoms such as stiffness in the knees, pain while standing or walking short distances, and swelling in the knee joint may indicate knee OA.

Maintaining a healthy weight, eating fish, leafy greens, nuts and berries, exercising every day, practicing good posture, being mindful when lifting heavy objects, and ensuring adequate rest can lower the risk of knee OA. “Aside from weight management and a balanced diet, taking supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine can also help reduce the risk of knee OA … engaging in low-impact activities like swimming, cycling and yoga can actually help maintain joint flexibility and stability while strengthening the muscles without putting too much strain on them,” said Yuen.

For patients who need treatment, there are various options for symptom relief, including medications such as chondroitin, steroid and hyaluronic acid injections, and minimally invasive procedure known as radiofrequency ablation that targets the nerves around the joint. For long-term relief and improved joint function, total knee replacement is an option for those with severe knee OA. Innovative minimally invasive procedures like the robotic-arm assisted surgery provide personalized care, improved surgical outcomes and faster recovery, said Yuen.