Knee Osteoarthritis: Assessment, Diagnosis and Treatment

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.