Introduction
Understanding Knee Arthrosis
Knee arthrosis, also known as knee osteoarthritis (OA), is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects the knee, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility. The condition occurs when the cartilage that cushions the knee joint breaks down over time, leading to bone-on-bone friction. This can result in inflammation, pain, and difficulty in performing everyday tasks. The knee is one of the most commonly affected joints, especially in older adults, but it can also develop in younger people due to trauma or genetic factors.
The knee joint is a complex structure composed of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and muscles that work in harmony to facilitate movement. Cartilage plays a crucial role in providing smooth movement and absorbing shock during activities like walking, running, and climbing stairs. In knee arthrosis, the cartilage gradually wears away, causing the bones to rub together and leading to joint pain and stiffness.
The Global Prevalence and Impact of Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common forms of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It is particularly prevalent in aging populations, with nearly 30% of adults over the age of 60 experiencing some form of knee osteoarthritis. As life expectancy increases globally, the prevalence of knee arthrosis continues to rise, making it a significant health concern.
In South Korea, as in many developed nations, knee arthrosis is becoming more prevalent among the elderly. Factors such as sedentary lifestyles, the aging population, and the increasing number of individuals living with obesity contribute to this rise. According to research, osteoarthritis is one of the leading causes of disability in the elderly in Korea, and the demand for treatment is growing rapidly. Furthermore, the advancements in healthcare in Korea, especially in orthopedic care, have made it an attractive destination for international patients seeking state-of-the-art treatments for knee osteoarthritis.
Knee osteoarthritis can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, making everyday activities, such as walking, standing for long periods, or climbing stairs, extremely painful. For many people, the disease progresses slowly, but without appropriate treatment, it can eventually lead to severe disability and the need for surgical intervention.