gonartrosis

Gonarthrosis, or knee osteoarthritis, is a degenerative joint disease characterized by deterioration of articular cartilage in the knee, leading to joint space narrowing, subchondral sclerosis, and osteophyte formation. It is among the most common causes of knee pain and disability in adults, especially older individuals.

The condition arises from mechanical wear, biological joint changes, and factors such as aging, obesity, prior knee injury or surgery, repetitive knee stress, and genetic predisposition. Primary gonarthrosis has no single cause; secondary forms follow injury or another underlying condition.

Symptoms include activity-related knee pain, morning or after-rest stiffness, swelling, crepitus, reduced range of motion, and occasional instability. Pain typically worsens with use and improves with rest.

Diagnosis is clinical and supported by imaging. X-rays show joint-space narrowing, osteophytes, and subchondral sclerosis; MRI may be used to assess cartilage and soft tissues when needed. Blood tests help exclude inflammatory or crystalline arthritis.

Radiographic staging is commonly done with the Kellgren-Lawrence scale (grades 0–4).

Management is multidisciplinary and includes weight reduction, physical therapy, strengthening exercises, and activity modification. Analgesia such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs is used; intra-articular steroids or hyaluronic acid injections, bracing, and assistive devices may help. End-stage disease may require knee replacement or osteotomy.

The course is chronic and progressive, with substantial variation in symptoms and function. Prevention focuses on maintaining joint health, avoiding injury, and managing risk factors such as obesity.