What Is Degenerative Joint Disease of the Knee?

Degenerative joint disease (DJD) of the knee, commonly called knee osteoarthritis, is a condition characterized by the gradual deterioration of cartilage in the knee joint. This protective cartilage serves as a cushion between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone), allowing smooth movement of the joint. When this cartilage wears down, the bones begin to rub against each other, causing inflammation, pain, and reduced function.

The condition typically develops slowly over years, with symptoms that progressively worsen over time. Risk factors include aging, obesity, previous knee injuries, repetitive stress on the knees, and genetic predisposition. While DJD can affect people of any age, it becomes increasingly common after age 50. The hallmark symptoms include pain that worsens with activity, morning stiffness that improves with movement, swelling, a grinding sensation during movement, and decreased range of motion in the affected knee.

Conservative Treatment Approaches

Most treatment plans for knee DJD begin with conservative, non-surgical approaches. Physical therapy stands as a cornerstone treatment, focusing on strengthening the muscles around the knee to improve stability and function. A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program that improves flexibility, builds strength, and enhances overall joint function without causing additional pain.

Weight management also plays a crucial role in conservative treatment. Research shows that even modest weight loss can significantly reduce pressure on the knee joints. For every pound lost, there's a four-pound reduction in the load exerted on the knee during daily activities. Lifestyle modifications such as low-impact exercises (swimming, cycling, or walking), using assistive devices like canes or knee braces, and applying heat or cold therapy can all contribute to symptom management. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help control pain and reduce inflammation when used as directed.

Medication and Injection Options

When over-the-counter medications prove insufficient, prescription-strength NSAIDs or other pain relievers may be recommended by healthcare providers. These medications can help manage more severe pain but should be used carefully due to potential side effects, especially with long-term use.

Injection therapies represent another treatment tier for knee DJD. Corticosteroid injections, offered by providers like Hospital for Special Surgery, deliver powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly into the joint, potentially providing relief for several weeks to months. Hyaluronic acid injections, sometimes called viscosupplementation, involve injecting a gel-like substance similar to the fluid naturally found in joints. Products from companies like Zimmer Biomet aim to improve lubrication and shock absorption in the knee joint.

More recently, biological treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapies have gained attention. These approaches, available at centers like Mayo Clinic, use components from the patient's own body to potentially stimulate healing and regeneration in the damaged joint. While promising, these treatments continue to undergo research to determine their long-term effectiveness.

Surgical Interventions When Necessary

When conservative treatments and medications fail to provide adequate relief, surgical options may be considered. Arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure, allows surgeons to view the joint through small incisions and potentially remove loose cartilage fragments or smooth damaged surfaces. However, its effectiveness specifically for degenerative joint disease has been questioned in recent research.

For more advanced cases, osteotomy procedures can realign the bones to shift weight away from the damaged portion of the knee. This surgery from providers like Stryker may delay the need for more extensive joint replacement, particularly in younger patients.

Partial knee replacement (unicompartmental knee arthroplasty) replaces only the damaged portion of the knee while preserving healthy tissue. This approach from companies like Smith & Nephew typically offers faster recovery than total replacement. For severe, widespread joint damage, total knee replacement (total knee arthroplasty) remains the most definitive treatment. During this procedure, surgeons remove damaged cartilage and bone and replace them with artificial components made of metal and plastic. DePuy Synthes offers advanced knee replacement systems designed to restore function and relieve pain.

Complementary and Lifestyle Approaches

Beyond conventional medical treatments, many people with knee DJD find relief through complementary approaches. Acupuncture, which involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body, may help reduce pain for some individuals. Mind-body practices such as tai chi and yoga can improve flexibility, balance, and body awareness while being gentle on the joints.

Nutritional supplements have also gained popularity, though evidence for their effectiveness varies. Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements from brands like Move Free are marketed for joint health, while omega-3 fatty acids and turmeric have anti-inflammatory properties that might benefit some patients.

Assistive devices play an important role in daily management of knee DJD. Properly fitted knee braces from manufacturers like DJO Global can provide stability and reduce pain during activities. Specialized footwear or orthotic inserts may help correct alignment issues that contribute to knee pain. For those with mobility challenges, walking aids such as canes or walkers reduce pressure on the affected knee and improve safety during daily activities.

Conclusion

Living with degenerative joint disease of the knee presents challenges, but a comprehensive approach combining medical treatments, lifestyle modifications, and self-care strategies can help maintain mobility and quality of life. The right treatment plan depends on your specific symptoms, disease severity, overall health, and personal goals. While knee DJD is a progressive condition without a cure, many people successfully manage their symptoms for years through a combination of the approaches discussed. Regular communication with healthcare providers ensures your treatment evolves as your needs change. Remember that what works for one person may not work for another, so patience and persistence are key to finding the most effective management strategy for your unique situation.

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This content was written by AI and reviewed by a human for quality and compliance.