As we age, it’s natural for our bodies to go through changes, and one of the most common health conditions among older adults is knee osteoarthritis. But today, even younger individuals in their 30s or 40s are experiencing early signs of this degenerative joint condition. Whether you’re already dealing with knee discomfort or looking to prevent it, understanding knee osteoarthritis is the first step toward long-term joint health.
What Is Knee Osteoarthritis?
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage in the knee — known as articular cartilage — gradually wears away. This leads to pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the knee.
While once seen primarily in the elderly, OA is now more commonly found in:
- Working adults with high-impact joint activity (e.g., long-distance runners)
- People with chondromalacia patella or runner’s knee
- Individuals with previous knee injuries or underlying joint inflammation
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Knee OA tends to affect women more than men and can be triggered by a variety of factors:
- Age: Cartilage naturally wears down over time
- Excess body weight: Increases pressure on the knee joint
- Repetitive knee use: Long hours of sitting, driving, lifting, or running
- Injuries: Prior trauma or conditions like PFPS (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)
- Genetics: Family history may predispose some individuals
- Chronic joint diseases: Such as rheumatoid arthritis
Symptoms to Watch For
Early signs of knee osteoarthritis may be subtle, but the condition often progresses if left untreated. Symptoms include:
- Pain during or after movement
- Joint stiffness, especially in the morning or after rest
- Swelling and crackling sounds in the knee
- Weakness in the surrounding muscles, leading to joint instability
- In severe cases, visible joint deformity
How to Prevent Knee Osteoarthritis
While factors like age and genetics can’t be avoided, you can still lower your risk with daily lifestyle choices:
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on joints
- Exercise wisely with low-impact options like swimming or cycling
- Avoid risky postures like prolonged kneeling or squatting
- Wear supportive shoes to minimize joint impact
- Strengthen the muscles around the knee through regular workouts
- Eat a joint-friendly diet rich in calcium, collagen, and omega-3s
Treatment Options for Knee Osteoarthritis
Treatment depends on severity and may include:
1. Basic Treatment
- Lifestyle changes: Avoid prolonged sitting or kneeling
- Physical therapy: Build surrounding muscle strength
- Weight control: Reduces knee load
- NSAIDs: Relieve pain and inflammation (based on doctor’s diagnosis)
2. Stem Cell Therapy
Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are a breakthrough in regenerative knee treatment. These cells help:
- Reduce inflammation and pain
- Stimulate natural cartilage regeneration
- Improve joint mobility
- Potentially delay or eliminate the need for knee replacement surgery
MSCs are derived from sources like bone marrow, fat, or umbilical cords, and work by repairing damaged tissue and slowing down cartilage breakdown.
Stem Cells for Knee OA and PFPS (Runner’s Knee)
Recent research shows that stem cells — particularly MSCs — can be effective in treating both knee OA and patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). Their benefits include:
- Natural regeneration of knee cartilage
- Reduction of joint inflammation
- Improved knee function and reduced pain
- Lower likelihood of needing surgery
While promising, stem cell therapy should always be considered under medical supervision. Results may vary by age, health condition, and lifestyle.
How Do I Know If Stem Cell Therapy Is Working?
Recovery varies by individual. Factors such as age, activity level, and overall health can affect results. After MSC injection, patients are advised to:
- Avoid intense exercise for at least 3 months
- Refrain from heavy joint use early in recovery
- Engage in guided rehab and quad-strengthening exercises to support healing
About EDNA Wellness
Located in Bangkok, EDNA Wellness is a private clinic specializing in Stem Cell Therapy for Neurology & Stroke as well as Bones & Joints. Beyond rehabilitation, we also provide aesthetic and wellness treatments to support your full-body vitality — all delivered with expert care and compassion.
For more information or inquiries, contact us via
LINE @ednawellness
WhatsApp +66 (0) 64 505 5599
