The knee is the largest joint in the body and is central to nearly every routine activity. The knee joint is formed by the ends of 3 bones: the lower end of the thigh bone (femur), the upper end of the shin bone (tibia), and the knee cap (patella). Thick, tough tissue bands called ligaments connect the bones and stabilize the joint. A smooth, plastic-like lining called cartilage covers the ends of the bones and prevents them from rubbing against each other, allowing for flexible and nearly frictionless movement. Cartilage also serves as a shock absorber, cushioning the bones from the forces between them. Finally, a soft tissue called synovium lines the joint and produces a lubricating fluid that reduces friction and wear.

Normally, all of the parts of the knee joint work together and the joint moves easily and without pain. However, diseases or injury can disturb the normal functioning of the joint resulting in:

• Pain
• Muscle weakness
• Limited movement

Osteoarthritis (OA)
One of the most common causes of knee pain and loss of mobility is the wearing away of the joint’s cartilage lining. When this happens, the bones rub against each other, causing significant pain and swelling — a condition known as osteoarthritis. Trauma or direct injury to the knee can also cause osteoarthritis. Additionally, without cartilage there is no shock absorption between the bones in the joint, allowing stress to build up in the bones and contributing to pain.

Osteoarthritis is probably the most common joint disorder in the United States, affecting approximately 20 million people.¹

Following an orthopaedic evaluation, your orthopaedic specialist will review and discuss the results with you. Your treatment options may include:

• Medication
• Physical therapy
• Knee joint fluid supplements
• Arthroscopy
• Knee joint resurfacing

If non-invasive treatment options are not giving you satisfactory pain relief, knee surgery may become necessary. However, a total knee replacement (TKR) may not be necessary — alternate types of knee implants are available.