What is it?
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint condition in which the protective cartilage in the knee gradually breaks down. It is the most common form of arthritis and a leading cause of disability in adults over 50.
Common causes
- Age-related cartilage degeneration
- Previous knee injury or surgery
- Obesity increasing load on the knee joint
- Genetic predisposition
- Repetitive occupational knee stress
Signs and symptoms
- Knee pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
- Morning stiffness lasting less than 30 minutes
- Swelling and warmth around the knee
- Creaking or grating sensation (crepitus)
- Reduced ability to fully straighten or bend the knee
Physiotherapy treatment at VPARC
- Quadriceps and hip strengthening to reduce joint load
- Hydrotherapy for pain-free strengthening
- Patellar taping and bracing for immediate pain relief
- Manual therapy for joint mobility
- Education: physiotherapy can delay or prevent surgery
What you can do at home
- Walk daily — low-impact aerobic activity protects the joint
- Maintain a healthy weight — every kilogram lost reduces knee load by 4 kg
- Practise seated leg raises and wall slides for gentle strengthening
- Use a supportive shoe or consider an unloader brace if prescribed
When to visit VPARC
Visit VPARC if knee pain is limiting your daily activities, if there is significant swelling, or if you have been told you may need surgery. Early intervention significantly improves outcomes.
Call +91 98896 78838 or read more on our Knee Pain Treatment in Varanasi page. This leaflet is general information and does not replace a medical assessment.