Knee Osteoarthritis: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Stages

Knee osteoarthritis symptoms [อาการ ข้อ เข่า เสื่อม, which is the term in Thai] of the knee takes several years to create. Medical professionals typically utilize stages to define the progression.

 

They use the Kellgren-Lawrence or KL, classification of OA to describe OA of the knee, yet there are other grading systems. The initial KL classification was released in 1957.

 

The stages below adhere to the KL classification, based upon a collection of X-ray pictures of OA of the knee.

 

Minor

 

An X-ray might not disclose any damage; however, bony developments of bone called osteophytes can be an early indication of OA.

 

Other modifications in the joint at this phase can include minor damage to the cartilage, as well as narrowing of the room between the bones in the joint.

 

At this stage, an individual is not likely to experience pain. The joint will appear healthy and balanced on an X-ray. Gait changes are likewise unlikely.

 

Mild

 

At this phase, an X-ray will perhaps reveal constricting of the space in the joint, as well as bone stimulates.

 

An individual might start to see joint pain and rigidity, particularly after resting for a while.

 

The location where the bones, as well as tissues, meet, will begin to set. When the tissues solidify, the bone ends up being thicker, as well as denser. A slim layer of bone will likewise develop under the cartilage material in the joints.

 

There might be some minor damage; however, the bones are not scrubbing or scraping against each other. Synovial fluid is present, as well as it helps reduce rubbing, sustaining the movement of the knee.

 

Modest

 

At this phase, an X-ray will reveal:

 

  • a clear narrowing of the joint space
  • some damages to cartilage as well as other tissue
  • some advancement of bone stimulates
  • a possible deformity at the ends of the bones

 

Serious

 

At this stage, an X-ray will reveal:

 

  • an extreme narrowing of the joint room, as an outcome of which the bones fulfill as well as massage together
  • a substantial advancement of bone stimulates
  • clear damage to the cartilage, which might have come to be completely or practically completely worn down
  • a guaranteed defect at the ends of the bones

 

Individuals might experience:

 

  • stiffness in the joint
  • less fluid around the joint
  • consistent swelling
  • more friction in the joint
  • substantial discomfort and discomfort also during easy motions

 

At this stage, a doctor may recommend surgery.