Understanding the link: Obesity and knee arthritis

In his latest online article, Mr Muhammad Adeel Akhtar gives us his insights into the effect of obesity on knee arthritis. He talks about how obesity contributes to knee arthritis, if weight loss can manage knee arthritis symptoms, how non- surgical and surgical treatments compare for knee arthritis in obese patients, recommended lifestyle modifications and exercises and the role of nutrition and supplements.

How does obesity contribute to knee arthritis, and its effects on disease progression?

Obesity results in increased loading of the knee joint by weight which can cause wear and tear changes (arthritis) and also results in worsening of those arthritic changes on X-rays and the symptoms like pain, swelling and stiffness from knee arthritis. 

Can weight loss manage knee arthritis symptoms in obese patients effectively?

Weight loss can result in improvement of pain, stiffness and mobility issues resulting from knee arthritis. In simple terms the muscles and tendons moving the knee joint have to work less after the weight loss and this results in less symptoms from arthritis. 

What are the potential complications of untreated knee arthritis in obese individuals?

The risk of progression of knee arthritis in obese patients is very high and it is very important to identify the problem earlier and intervene with advice on healthy eating, weight management and activity modification. 

How do non-surgical and surgical treatments compare for knee arthritis in obese patients?

The decision about surgical and non-surgical treatments for patients is based on their symptoms and radiological findings of the severity of knee arthritis. Both treatments can be successful if selected appropriately in discussion with the patients.

What are recommended lifestyle modifications and exercises for managing knee arthritis in obese individuals?

Any level of activity which is pain free and enjoyable for patients is advisable. I would suggest an individualised approach based on my patients need and ability to get the best results from any self-help programmes like “Escape Pain Programme” or using the online platforms like “Second Nature”.

What is the role of nutrition and supplements in treating knee arthritis in obese patients?

There has been a lot of recent research about specific supplements like Omega-3, Vitamin D Vitamin K, antioxidant such as vitamin C, vitamin E, turmeric, glucosamine and chondroitin supplements in improving the symptoms from knee arthritis. However, there is no consensus in the literature about the cost effectiveness of all these. A healthy and delicious diet contains a lot of these supplements and can be used instead. 

Mr Muhammad Adeel Akhtar is an esteemed orthopaedic surgeon with more than 15 years of experience. You can schedule an appointment with Mr Akhtar on his Top Doctors profile.