Reducing the Risk of Knee OA after Knee Injury
What you need to know
What is knee OA? Knee osteoarthritis, also known as knee OA, is a condition characterized by changes in the structures of the knee joint. These changes typically develop gradually over time, and knee OA is very common among older adults. In fact, it’s sometimes considered a normal part of the aging process.
Post-traumatic knee osteoarthritis (PTKOA) refers to knee OA that develops after a sudden or gradual onset knee joint injury. Individuals with a history of knee injury have an increased risk (50/50) of developing early-onset knee OA within the following 10 to 15 years after the injury, even if it was managed surgically. Those with intra-articular changes, such as ACL or meniscal tears, are at higher risk.
How can I reduce my risk? While you can’t undo an injury that has already occurred, you can make informed choices following the injury to manage your risk of developing PTKOA or at least delay its onset and reduce its severity and impact on your life. Here are some key actions you can take:
Reduce your chances of another injury:
- Follow the guidance provided by your healthcare practitioner to prevent the injury from recurring.
- Strengthen your front thigh muscles (quadriceps) and the muscles down the back of your thigh (hamstrings) to reduce your risk of PTKOA-related disability.
- Participate in evidence-based injury prevention programs, particularly in athletic populations, which often include full-body dynamic movements and strengthening exercises.
Stay active in the long term:
- Aim to maintain adequate levels of regular physical activity, even as life circumstances change.
- Make a longer-term plan with your healthcare practitioner and seek support if you experience any pain or insecurity related to your knee that affects your activity levels.
Maintain or aim for a healthy body weight:
- Being overweight is associated with knee OA, so strive to achieve or maintain a healthy body weight in the long term.
- Seek nutritional advice if needed and consult your healthcare provider for support.
When do I need to seek help? If you notice a reduction in your physical activity due to knee-related issues, consider reaching out to a healthcare practitioner such as a physiotherapist for assistance. Symptomatic knee OA can cause discomfort during basic daily activities, leading to further reductions in physical activity and overall functioning. Seeking support early can help manage symptoms effectively through activity modification and pacing.
Remember:
- Maintaining weight, muscle strength, and activity levels is easier than trying to regain them.
- Your healthcare practitioners can provide valuable information and tips, but you play a crucial role in managing your knee health in the long term.
- It’s never too late to start caring for yourself, but addressing concerns early can make management easier in the long run.
