Gonarthrosis, also known as knee osteoarthritis, is a degenerative condition affecting the knee joint. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the bones in your knee gradually wears away. This breakdown of cartilage can cause pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion in the knee.
Symptoms of Gonarthrosis
The most common symptoms of gonarthrosis include:
-
Pain: This can range from mild to severe and may worsen with activity.
-
Stiffness: The knee may feel stiff, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
-
Swelling: The knee joint may become swollen and tender to the touch.
-
Grinding sensation: You may hear or feel a grinding or clicking noise when you move your knee.
-
Reduced range of motion: You may not be able to bend or straighten your knee fully.
-
Muscle weakness: The muscles supporting the knee may weaken, leading to instability.
-
Bony spurs: These may develop around the joint, causing additional pain and stiffness.
Causes of Gonarthrosis
While the exact cause of gonarthrosis is unknown, several factors can increase your risk, including:
-
Age: The risk of gonarthrosis increases with age as cartilage naturally wears down over time.
-
Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis can increase your risk.
-
Obesity: Excess weight puts extra stress on the knee joint.
-
Previous knee injuries: Injuries to the knee, such as ligament tears or fractures, can increase the risk of developing gonarthrosis later in life.
-
Repetitive stress: Jobs or activities that involve repetitive knee movements can increase the risk.
Diagnosis of Gonarthrosis
To diagnose gonarthrosis, your doctor will typically:
-
Review your medical history: This includes asking about your symptoms, any previous knee injuries, and your family history.
-
Perform a physical exam: This involves checking your knee for swelling, tenderness, range of motion, and stability.
-
Order imaging tests: X-rays can show the extent of cartilage damage and the presence of bony spurs. In some cases, MRI scans may be used to get a more detailed view of the knee joint