Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disease in Singapore, affecting an estimated 10-15% of adults over 60. It occurs when the protective cartilage within the knee joint wears down over time, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. At DR+ ,  our GPs with specialised training in pain management provide a comprehensive knee assessment to determine the underlying cause and develop a personalised, non-surgical treatment plan.

Knee osteoarthritis represents an incurable, progressive degenerative disorder. It includes the gradual wear and tear of the cartilage in the knee joint, causing pain and inflammation when the bones finally begin to rub against one another. The knee is considered a weight-bearing joint and hence is under constant stress, particularly while walking, running, and standing. As the cartilage deteriorates, the joint loses its smooth gliding movement and may subsequently feel stiff, swell, and lose some range of motion. 

Whereas all joints are at risk for osteoarthritis, the knee is a particularly vulnerable joint because it bears much use. Individuals with knee OA usually experience anything from mild pain with movement to severe pain in the joint that may interfere even with sleep. While knee osteoarthritis is generally common among the elderly, young people can suffer from it because of trauma, obesity, and family background.

Clinical Examination

Your DR+ doctor will assess the knee for effusion, range of motion, joint line tenderness, alignment, and muscle strength. The degree of functional limitation is also evaluated. Clinically, knee OA is classified on a severity scale that guides treatment planning.

X-Ray

Standing X-rays of the knee show joint space narrowing, osteophyte formation (bone spurs), subchondral sclerosis, and subchondral cysts: the hallmark features of OA. X-ray severity does not always correlate with pain severity: some patients with minimal X-ray changes have severe pain, and vice versa.

MRI

MRI provides detailed assessment of cartilage, menisci, and soft tissues, particularly useful in younger patients with atypical presentations.

POCUS

Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS) is available at specific DR+ clinics to assess knee effusion and guide injection procedures more accurately.

Our doctors are experienced in assessing musculoskeletal and joint pain, helping patients identify the underlying cause of knee discomfort and guiding appropriate treatment or referral when necessary. All DR+ doctors undergo additional training through the Singapore Paincare Academy, where they develop skills in performing specialised injection therapies and related procedures aimed at relieving pain and improving function. This structured training allows our doctors to provide targeted, evidence-based care for patients experiencing knee pain while ensuring appropriate referral when more complex specialist management is required.

Knee osteoarthritis can be prevented through lifestyle changes and specific measures. First, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial as excess weight can cause excessive stress on knee joints, leading to accelerated cartilage breakdown. Moderate weight loss can reduce pain and improve function.  

Also, regular exercise, such as flexibility exercises like swimming, biking, and walking, can help maintain range and prevent stiffness in the knee. Low-impact aerobics, such as swimming, biking, and walking, are also beneficial. Proper footwear, such as supportive shoes with good arch supports, can distribute weight properly and reduce knee stress. Avoid jolting exercises like running and jumping, which can lead to joint injury. Instead, focus on mild exercises without potential harm to the knees. Protecting joints during physical activities with knee pads or knee braces can minimize injury occurrences.  

Nevertheless, regular stretching can loosen musculature around the knee, allowing ease of motion. By implementing these tips, individuals can protect their knees in the long term and prevent further deterioration of joints due to osteoarthritis.