Knee arthritis, most common joint disease

Arthritis is considered the most common disease of the joints, said a member of Iranian Society of Knee Surgery. Dr. Sohrab Keyhani told Iran Daily that obesity is the most important factor leading to knee arthritis. He added that genetics is also a determining factor in abrasion of the knee joint.

He noted that knee arthritis is mostly caused by foot deformity.

Those with parentheses feet experience lots of pressure on their knees — exposing them more to arthritis, he added.

Also, daily habits such as sitting posture intensify arthritis, he said. One should avoid sitting on the floor and using Iranian toilet, he added.

Controlling weight is the most important for preventing arthritis, he said.

He noted that road accidents may cause traumas and problems in knees, adding knee trauma and disability affects a young or middle-aged person for a lifetime.

Keyhani continued that the majority of those who refer the orthopedic centers face problems in their organs and joints.

Many people may encounter problems in carpal and shoulder joints, but since these joints don’t endure the body’s weight, they don’t require urgent treatment, he said.

However, those with injury in their weightbearing joints such as knee, should consult a physician or orthopedist at the earliest, he mentioned.

The sub specialist further said knee arthritis is more prevalent in women than in men and he attributed this to excess weight in women and less physical activity.

Keyhani said knee replacement surgery is not the sole treatment for arthritis. One who undergoes this surgery should get physical therapy and do corrective exercises, he added.

He mentioned that 90 percent of those who undergo knee replacement surgery, are the elderly who need the surgery due to aging.

The remaining 10 percent are middle-aged persons who need knee replacement surgery due to accidents and sport injuries, he added.

He put the life expectancy of the replaced joint between 15 and 20 years on average. But, if one doesn’t control his/her excess weight, the replaced joint will be injured sooner, he cautioned.