Osteoarthritis, particularly in the knee, occurs when the cartilage between two bone ends wears down. This causes bones to rub directly against each other, leading to pain, swelling, joint stiffness, reduced mobility, and potentially bone spur formation. Common signs of osteoarthritis include a dull ache when standing up after sitting or waking, pain when climbing stairs, a "creaking" sound during joint movement, and joint stiffness in the morning or after prolonged rest.

Osteoarthritis can indeed affect young individuals, primarily due to unscientific lifestyle habits or as a secondary condition resulting from other medical issues.

Inadequate exercise intensity among young people, such as minimal physical activity, can weaken thigh and gluteal muscles, potentially leading to weight gain and negatively impacting joint cartilage. Conversely, excessive exercise can also cause degeneration due to injury. In such cases, the joint cartilage surface and surrounding components like nerves, muscle bundles, menisci, and ligaments can be damaged. Without timely or proper treatment, this can accelerate the osteoarthritis process.

Doctor Khoa assesses a patient's knee joint function. Illustration: Tam Anh District 7 General Clinic.

Overweight and obesity increase pressure on weight-bearing joints, especially the knees, hips, and spine. This accelerates the erosion of cartilage, causing pain, joint stiffness, and restricted movement. Additionally, adipose tissue secretes inflammatory substances, further speeding up the destruction of joint cartilage.

Poor nutrition, characterized by consuming excessive fast food or alcoholic beverages, can lead to weight gain and deficiencies in calcium and vitamin D. This lack of essential nutrients for the musculoskeletal system accelerates the onset of osteoarthritis.

The abuse of stimulants like alcohol, tobacco, and drugs hinders nutrient absorption, damages bone cells, and increases inflammatory responses, severely damaging the musculoskeletal system.

Chronic inflammatory arthritis conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and psoriatic arthritis, if not well-controlled, lead to prolonged joint inflammation. This destroys joint cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and adjacent structures, accelerating the progression of osteoarthritis to severe levels and causing motor disability.

In severe cases, individuals with osteoarthritis may require joint replacement surgery. Therefore, upon noticing any unusual symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical examination promptly for a doctor's assessment and appropriate treatment. To improve knee joint health, regular exercise at a suitable intensity is recommended to maintain musculoskeletal strength and enhance muscle flexibility. A diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help maintain a healthy weight, preventing increased pressure on the joints.

Master of Science, Doctor, First-Degree Specialist Truong Tri Khoa

Specialist in Internal Medicine, Musculoskeletal Department

Tam Anh District 7 General Clinic