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Ditch "Bone-on-Bone": Surgeon's Knee Pain Secrets
26 Oct
Summary
- Orthopaedic surgeon advises against the phrase "bone-on-bone" for knee arthritis.
- Movement nourishes knee cartilage, contrary to common wear-and-tear beliefs.
- Knee arthritis is primarily a metabolic disease, not just from joint usage.
Orthopaedic surgeon Howard Luks advises ditching the term "bone-on-bone" when discussing knee arthritis, as it creates undue patient anxiety. He emphasizes that imaging results do not define a patient's functional capacity or limit their activities.
Contrary to popular belief, Luks asserts that movement is crucial for knee health. Cartilage receives nutrients from synovial fluid, which is distributed through joint loading during activities like walking. This process aids in cartilage repair and regeneration.
Luks identifies osteoarthritis as primarily a metabolic disease. Systemic inflammation from conditions like diabetes can affect synovial fluid, impairing cartilage repair. He advocates for daily walks, strength training, and functional movements to maintain knee health and broaden life's capabilities.
He notes that even with existing knee issues, consistent exercise can improve pain and function. While knee replacements remain an option for severe cases, Luks's personal routine includes extensive aerobic activity, climbing, and weight training to ensure lifelong joint health and agility.
