Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition that can affect any joint in the body, including the knee joint. One of the common complications of osteoarthritis is the development of joint deformities, which can cause pain and limit mobility. In this blog, we will discuss the most common types of knee joint deformities seen in osteoarthritis patients, and how to diagnose them.
Deformities of Knee Joint
The knee joint is one of the most complex and critical joints in the body. It is composed of the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap), which are connected by a series of ligaments and tendons. Osteoarthritis can cause several types of knee joint deformities, including:
Flexion Deformity
A flexion deformity is a condition where the knee joint becomes fixed in a bent position. This can cause difficulty in walking, standing, or sitting. It is commonly seen in patients with longstanding osteoarthritis and can be diagnosed by observing the angle of the knee joint during movement.
Varus Deformity
Varus deformity is a condition where the knee joint is angled inward, towards the midline of the body. This deformity can be caused by the gradual wearing away of the cartilage on the inner side of the knee joint, leading to an inward angulation of the tibia bone relative to the femur bone. This can cause pain and stiffness, particularly during walking or standing.
Valgus Deformity
To diagnose knee joint deformities in osteoarthritis patients, several diagnostic tests can be used, including:
Physical examination: A physical exam can help detect any visible deformities, such as a bowed leg, or any range of motion limitations.
X-rays: X-rays can be used to assess the degree of joint damage, including cartilage loss and bone deformities.
MRI scans: MRI scans can provide a more detailed image of the knee joint and surrounding structures, such as the ligaments and tendons.
How Joint and Bone Solutions Makes a Difference
Osteoarthritis deformities can cause pain, discomfort, and reduced mobility for patients, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, patients can often experience significant relief from their symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms of osteoarthritis deformities, such as pain or stiffness in the knee joint, it is important to seek medical attention to obtain a proper diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.