Understanding Knee Arthritis: Stages and Treatment Options by Dr. Kushal Hippalgaonkar

Dr. Kushal Hippalgaonkar was recently featured in an article on the Times of India discussing knee arthritis as a common yet often underestimated cause of chronic pain and mobility limitation.

Knee arthritis is one of the leading causes of chronic pain and reduced mobility, especially as people age. It develops gradually, often starting with mild discomfort and progressing to significant joint damage if left unaddressed. Understanding the stage of arthritis is crucial, as it helps patients and clinicians choose the most appropriate treatment and plan ahead for long-term joint health.

Early Stages of Knee Arthritis

In the early stages, the cartilage cushioning the knee joint begins to thin but is not completely worn away. Symptoms may include mild stiffness, occasional pain while climbing stairs, walking long distances, or standing for extended periods. X-rays may show early joint-space narrowing or small bone spurs.

At this stage, treatment focuses on slowing progression and maintaining mobility. Lifestyle modifications such as weight management, low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling, and avoiding excessive joint strain play an important role. Physiotherapy helps strengthen surrounding muscles, improve stability, and reduce pain. Medications and supportive braces may also be used to manage symptoms effectively.

Advanced Knee Arthritis

Advanced or end-stage arthritis occurs when the cartilage is almost completely worn out, causing bone-on-bone contact within the joint. Pain becomes persistent, swelling increases, and daily activities such as walking short distances, getting up from a chair or climbing even a single step can become difficult.

When conservative treatments no longer provide relief, surgical intervention may be recommended. Knee replacement surgery is a well-established and effective option for relieving pain, correcting deformity and restoring function. Modern implants are designed to closely mimic the natural knee joint and can provide long-lasting results with proper rehabilitation.

Role of Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement

Robotic-assisted knee replacement has further enhanced surgical precision by using advanced imaging and computer-guided technology. This allows for more accurate bone cuts, better alignment, reduced tissue trauma, and faster recovery. Patients often experience improved function and a more natural-feeling knee after surgery.

Understanding knee arthritis and its stages empowers patients to make informed decisions about their care, whether it involves early intervention to preserve joint health or advanced solutions to regain mobility and quality of life.