Left-sided knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease caused by the gradual breakdown of cartilage in the left knee joint. The disease is primarily caused by age-related wear and tear, leading to bone-on-bone friction, pain, inflammation, and stiffness. Other factors include genetic predisposition, previous knee injuries, obesity, and repetitive stress from certain occupations. In some cases, inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can accelerate OA development. Common symptoms include left knee pain, stiffness, swelling, tenderness, reduced range of motion, and difficulty bending or straightening the knee. In advanced stages, bone spurs may develop, further contributing to pain and limited mobility. Diagnosis involves a comprehensive approach, including a detailed medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies. X-ray imaging is crucial for visualizing cartilage loss, bone spurs, and joint space narrowing. Blood tests may be performed to rule out other inflammatory conditions..
Initial management involves conservative approaches like physical therapy, weight management, and pain relief through over-the-counter medications or prescription pain relievers. Corticosteroid injections and hyaluronic acid injections may also be considered. If conservative treatments don’t provide enough relief, surgical options like arthroscopy or partial or total knee replacement surgery may be necessary. Total knee replacement involves replacing the damaged joint with artificial components, providing significant pain relief and improved mobility. Unicompartmental knee replacement is an option for localized OA. The decision for surgery depends on the severity of symptoms, joint damage, and the patient’s overall health and lifestyle.
Mrs. G. DhanaLaxmi from Hyderabad successfully underwent surgery for Knee Osteoarthritis at Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, under the supervision of Dr. Badam Kiran K Reddy, Senior Consultant Trauma, Robotic Joint Replacement, Sports Arthroscopy, Ilizarov, Kyphoscoliosis, Endoscopic Spine and Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon.
Dr. Badam Kiran K Reddy
MBBS, MS (Ortho), DNB (Ortho), MRCS (Edinburgh, UK), FIJR (DePuy/J&J), FISA (Smith & Nephew), FIPO (Singapore)Senior Consultant Trauma, Robotic Joint Replacement, Sports Arthroscopy, Ilizarov, Kyphoscoliosis, Endoscopic Spine and Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon