Information About Hip & Knee Arthritis

Hip arthritis is a common problem, most often due to osteoarthritis. When hip arthritis affects a patient, the normal cartilage surface of the joint is worn away. When the hip arthritis becomes severe, patients have significant pain and treatment is necessary.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of knee arthritis, often progressing with age and causing limitations in activities. The treatment of knee arthritis consists of physical therapy, activity modification, medications and surgery.

Many people have arthritis of their hips, knees, or other joints. But what causes arthritis? It is difficult to determine exactly what causes arthritis in every situation, but there are some factors that can contribute to this common problem.

I am often asked why new cartilage can't simply be inserted into the knee to replace worn out cartilage. Patients with arthritis have joint problems because of loss of cartilage within the joint. This leads to inflammation, swelling, and pain, and tends to worsen as the arthritis progresses. Therefore, the logical conclusion would be to simply replace the cartilage.

Many patients are using these supplements, but where is the medical community on this issue? How much is known about glucosamine and chondroitin?

A recent report from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has outlined recommended treatments for patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. The study investigated different treatments, and looked at the best research available, to make guideline recommendations for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.