Help for Arthritic Knees

For the 15 million Americans who suffer from osteoarthritis, even the simplest activities can be painful, and sometimes impossible.

Osteoarthritis, often considered to be a "wear-and-tear" condition, is the most common form of arthritis, caused by a breakdown of the cartilage within the joints. While healthy cartilage is a firm, rubbery substance that serves as a cushion and shock absorber for joints, the cartilage in the arthritic joint thins, often becoming ragged or torn.

Over time, the cartilage may completely disintegrate. The result is pain, swelling and reduction in motion of the affected joint.

According to Nicholas DiNubile, M.D., spokesperson for the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and orthopedic consultant to the Philadelphia 76ers, "Normal joint cartilage is slippery and smooth, like polished marble. When osteoarthritis is present, the surface can start to look more like shag carpet."

Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint in the body, but the knee is the one most commonly affected. Although the condition may be influenced by genetic factors, an injury to the knee is often the culprit.

"Many patients with osteoarthritis of the knee don't even know that they have it," said DiNubile. "People should suspect it if they have pain or mild swelling after activity, or if they have difficulty getting out of a chair or going up stairs," he said.

For years, drug therapy has been the mainstay of treatment for mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis of the knee. Recently, the long-term use of medications has become a less-attractive option for many patients and their doctors.

Aspirin, ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have long been linked to gastrointestinal complications, including stomach ulcers. Vioxx, a drug once commonly used to treat arthritis symptoms, was withdrawn from the market in 2004, after reports that it increased the risk of heart attack and stroke.