M17.4

Clinical Causes: Previous injuries to the knees, such as fractures or ligament tears Repetitive stress or overuse of the knee joints Infections that cause joint damage Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or bursitis Congenital or developmental abnormalities affecting knee alignment Obesity, which increases the load on knee joints Metabolic disorders, such as gout or hemochromatosis Prolonged or uneven distribution of weight across the knees

Key Symptoms: Persistent knee pain, worsening with activity or after sitting for long periods Swelling and warmth around the knee joint Stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity Limited range of motion in affected knees A feeling of instability or buckling in the knees Crepitus or a grinding sensation during movement Visible swelling or deformity in advanced cases Muscle weakness around the knee

Diagnosis Path: X-rays to assess joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and deformities MRI scans for detailed visualization of cartilage and soft tissues Laboratory tests to rule out other conditions like infections or inflammatory diseases

Treatment Protocols: Lifestyle modifications, such as weight management to reduce joint stress Physical therapy to strengthen muscles around the knee and improve flexibility Pain management with medications like acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) Use of assistive devices such as braces, orthotics, or walking aids Injections of corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid to reduce inflammation and lubricate the joint Alternative therapies like acupuncture or nutritional supplements Surgical options like knee osteotomy or joint replacement in severe cases