It is a condition also known in medical terms as knee osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs as a result of the wear and tear of joint cartilage over time. Calcification in the knee capIt is one of the most common types of osteoarthritis of the knee joint. It is a condition that generally increases with age. However, in some cases, it can also develop at a young age.
What Causes Calcification in the Kneecap?
Calcification in the knee capIt is a condition that occurs as a result of the cartilage tissue in the knee joint wearing away over time. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the wear and tear of joint cartilage.
Aging is the most common cause of arthritis. As we age, joint cartilage naturally wears away and becomes damaged. This reduces the flexibility and durability of the joint cartilage, predisposing it to arthritis.
Overuse of the knee joint can contribute to damage to the joint cartilage and the development of arthritis. Excessive sports and heavy lifting, especially in the knee, can cause damage to the joint cartilage.
Familial predisposition may increase the risk of arthritis. It is thought that genetic factors play a role in the development of arthritis in individuals with a familial history. Carrying excess weight increases the risk of arthritis by placing extra stress on the knee joints. Obesity may contribute to faster wear of joint cartilage and the development of arthritis at an earlier age.
Defects in the structure of the knee joint trigger the development of arthritis. Inflammatory joint diseases can result in extreme joint damage. This may increase the risk of arthritis.
Kneecap arthritis is associated with a combination of factors. It usually develops over time. However, with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, symptoms can be managed and quality of life improved.
What are the symptoms of arthritis in the kneecap?
Calcification in the knee capIt is a condition that occurs as a result of the wear of the cartilage tissue on the knee joint. This condition manifests itself with symptoms that worsen over time and cause difficulty in daily activities.
- Calcification of the kneecap is one of the most common symptoms. Pain is usually felt on the inside of the knee, under or around the kneecap. Pain may increase, especially during activity or after sitting and standing for long periods of time.
- It may be associated with mild or moderate swelling around the knee. This swelling may occur due to inflammation and fluid accumulation in the joint.
- Osteoarthritis can limit the mobility of the knee. An individual with arthritis in his knee has difficulty even in movements such as bending or straightening his knees.
- Osteoarthritis may be characterized by a feeling of stiffness when moving the joint. This stiffness is felt especially in the mornings or after being inactive for a long time.
- People with arthritis may hear a crunching sensation or crunching sounds when bending or straightening their knees. These sounds occur due to the wear of the cartilage tissue in the joint.
- As osteoarthritis progresses, the stability of the knee may decrease. This may manifest itself as a feeling of slippage of the knee or a decreased sense of security.
- Advanced arthritis may cause deformities in the knee joint. In particular, deformities such as the knee bending outward or inward may be observed.
Calcification in the knee cap Symptoms may vary from person to person. The severity of symptoms may vary depending on the situation. These symptoms can negatively impact quality of life and limit daily activities.
Arthritis Surgery on the Kneecap
Calcification in the knee capIt is a condition that can significantly affect the quality of life. Progressive symptoms usually increase over time. In cases where conservative treatment methods are inadequate, surgery is considered.
Knee cap replacement surgery involves replacing the damaged knee joint with an artificial prosthesis. In this surgical procedure, damaged joint cartilage and bones are removed. A prosthesis made of metal, plastic or ceramic is placed. These prostheses reduce pain and restore mobility by restoring the natural movement of the knee.
If arthritis has affected only part of the kneecap, only the damaged part may need to be replaced. In this case, partial kneecap replacement surgery is performed. In this procedure, only the damaged parts are removed and the healthy parts of the knee are preserved while the prosthesis is placed.
Kneecap prosthesis surgery is performed by a specialist surgical team under general anesthesia. During surgery, the surgeon makes a suitable incision and removes damaged cartilage and bone tissue. Next, the artificial prosthesis is properly placed and fixed. After the surgery, the surgical area is closed with stitches and the patient is taken into the recovery process.
The recovery process after knee cap replacement surgery varies depending on the patient's age, health condition and techniques. Patients usually stay in the hospital for a few days after surgery. They then continue the rehabilitation program at home.
Physical therapy and exercises are important to regain muscle strength and speed recovery. The full recovery process may take several weeks or months. During this period, the patient should carefully follow his doctor's instructions.
Calcification in the knee cap Surgery is effective for reducing pain and restoring mobility. However, as with any surgical procedure, it involves potential risks and complications. Therefore, a detailed discussion should be held between the patient and the surgeon before the surgery. The patient should be informed about the possible consequences.