Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the cartilage between joints
wears away. Osteoarthritis can occur in specific joints only, such as
knee osteoarthritis which only affects the knee joints. The symptoms of
knee arthritis include pain, feeling of warmth in the joint, swelling,
decreased mobility of the knee, stiffness in the knee, etc. The
diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis requires a physical examination of the
symptoms experienced, X-ray and MRI scans. Blood tests can ensure that
other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis are ruled out. The goals
of the treatment of knee osteoarthritis are to return mobility and
relieve the pain. The chief strategies employed to manage the condition
include weight loss, stretching exercises, using braces to support the
knee and relieve pressure, prescription of anti-inflammatory and pain
relieving drugs, injection of corticosteroids into the knees, etc. This
book includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across
the world, on various topics related to the assessment, diagnosis and
treatment of knee osteoarthritis. It provides significant information on
osteoarthritis to help develop a good understanding. The book is
appropriate for students seeking detailed information of this medical
condition as well as for experts.
