Medical Specialists Explain: 'Knee Osteoarthritis' and 'Knee Injury Pain' - Different Causes, Diagnoses, and Treatments

Knee pain is one of the most common health problems globally, affecting both elderly and working-age populations. Many people misunderstand that similar knee pain symptoms can have completely different origins and treatment approaches, especially between knee osteoarthritis and injury-related knee pain. Assoc. Prof. Air Chief Marshal Dr. Jamroon Kiattilerdporn, an orthopedic specialist, explains that knee pain has two primary causes: age-related wear and tear, and injuries from impact or accidents. Knee Osteoarthritis is a chronic, gradual condition involving slow cartilage deterioration, causing thigh and shin bones to rub against each other during movement. Typical symptoms include chronic, progressive pain that worsens with prolonged walking, morning stiffness, crackling sounds when bending the knee, and potential knee deformity. Traumatic knee pain typically results from excessive force or twisting, such as ACL injuries or direct impacts. Distinctive features include immediate pain after the incident, swelling, heat, redness, and limited mobility. Medical experts emphasize that previous knee injuries increase future osteoarthritis risk, particularly severe ligament or cartilage damage. Accurate diagnosis requires comprehensive medical evaluation, including detailed history, physical examination, and imaging studies like X-rays and MRI. Treatment approaches vary based on the specific condition, ranging from non-surgical interventions like lifestyle modifications and physical therapy to targeted medical treatments.