Knee osteoarthritis is characterized by painful and stiff knees joints. It happens when the articular cartilage begins to think out and gradually deteriorates. This smooth cartilage protects the bones in the knees from wear and tear.

Damage to the articular cartilage can cause bone damage and result in inflammation of the synovial fluid which protects and lubricates the joint. There are many factors responsible for the occurrence of knee osteoarthritis. Some genetic factors seem to be associated with this disease. It is seen more frequently in women than in men and usually appears around the age of 50. Genetic factors can affect the body’s ability to synthesize collagen, the building clock of cartilage in the joints.

 It can also affect the ability of the bones to repair them and stimulate body’s inflammatory response. People who have suffered knee injury are prone to knee osteoarthritis. Fracture, tear in the knee ligaments, meniscal injury etc are the major causes of knee osteoarthritis. Similarly, those involved in jobs or sports which exert repeated strain on the knees are also at risk. Another common reason for knee osteoarthritis is obesity. Excess weight exerts pressure on the knee joints and cause wear and tear of the joints. This can cause or aggravate knee osteoarthritis.