Knee Arthritis Treatment in Central Louisiana

What Is Knee Arthritis? 

Arthritis is a painful joint disease that affects more than 50 million adults worldwide. The knee is the most commonly affected joint, and knee arthritis can develop in several different forms depending on the underlying cause, patient history, and age. 

Types of Knee Arthritis 

The specific type of knee arthritis is defined by factors such as the area of the knee affected, prior injury, the origin of the condition, and the patient’s age. These factors contribute to five primary types of knee arthritis: 

• Osteoarthritis 
• Post-traumatic arthritis 
• Rheumatoid arthritis 
• Juvenile idiopathic arthritis 
• Reactive arthritis 

Osteoarthritis 

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. While it can affect joints throughout the body, it most frequently occurs in the knees, hips, lower back, and neck. 

Causes

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition caused by the gradual wear and tear of joint cartilage over time. As cartilage deteriorates with age, the bones of the knee joint may begin to rub against one another, resulting in significant pain and stiffness. 

Post-Traumatic Arthritis 

Post-traumatic arthritis is a more specific form of osteoarthritis that develops following a knee injury. 

Causes 

This condition results from cartilage degeneration that is accelerated by trauma to the knee, such as a torn meniscus or an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. 

Rheumatoid Arthritis 

Rheumatoid arthritis differs from osteoarthritis in that it is a systemic condition rather than one isolated to a single joint. If rheumatoid arthritis affects one knee, it is likely to affect the other as well. 

Causes 

The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown. However, research suggests a strong connection between autoimmune disorders and joint inflammation. Genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors may all play a role in triggering the immune system to attack healthy joint tissue. 

Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis 

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis closely resembles rheumatoid arthritis but occurs in children rather than adults. 

Causes 

Like rheumatoid arthritis, the precise cause is not fully understood. It is believed to be linked to autoimmune or autoinflammatory processes. 

Reactive Arthritis 

Reactive arthritis is an inflammatory condition that can affect the joints as well as other parts of the body, including the eyes, skin, and urinary tract. 

Causes 

Reactive arthritis is caused by a bacterial infection that enters the bloodstream through the gastrointestinal or urogenital tract. Because of its origin, it is often associated with conjunctivitis and urethritis. 

Common Symptoms of Knee Arthritis 

Patients with knee arthritis may experience a range of symptoms, including: 

• Knee soreness or stiffness 
• Limited range of motion 
• Swelling and inflammation 
• Fluid buildup around the knee joint 
• Clicking or cracking during knee movement 
• A grating or scraping sensation 
• Pain that worsens during or after daily activities 
• Fever and rash in cases of juvenile idiopathic arthritis 

Treatment for Severe Knee Arthritis 

When knee arthritis symptoms significantly impact daily life or cause severe pain, surgical treatment may be necessary. Depending on the severity of joint damage, treatment options may include partial knee replacement or total knee replacement surgery. 

Schedule a Consultation

If knee arthritis pain is interfering with your mobility or quality of life, the orthopaedic specialists at Mid State Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Center provide comprehensive care using advanced surgical and non-surgical treatment options. With six locations across Central Louisiana—Alexandria, Jena, Natchitoches, Pineville, Shreveport, and Ville Platte—expert orthopaedic care is close to home. 

Call (318) 473-9556 or book an appointment online to schedule a consultation at one of our six Central Louisiana locations.