Knee osteophytes are small spurs that form in and around the knee joint as a result of chronic inflammation. Osteophytes in general are often associated with arthritis and are a sign of an underlying problem, rather than being a standalone medical issue. Treatments are available for knee osteophytes, to address both the bony growths and the inflammation causing the osteophytes to develop in the first place. Care may be supervised by a joint specialist or an orthopedic surgeon.
Bony projections in the knee can limit range of motion in addition to causing pain. They can also lead to inflammation, keeping the joint in a chronic state of pain and irritation. When people report to the doctor with knee pain, X-rays can be used to study the knee. If osteophytes are present, their severity can be evaluated and discussed, and a treatment plan developed.
For patients with relatively mild inflammation and small osteophytes, anti-inflammatory drugs, pain management, and physical therapy can be used to address the problem. The joint can be slowly strengthened and the patient can be provided with support. While a return of perfect joint function is not possible, the patient's pain and soreness will be limited and it may be possible to resume many activities.
If osteophytes are severe and causing serious problems, surgery may need to be considered. In the knee surgery, the knee osteophytes will be removed and the surgeon may take other steps to address the inflammation in the joint. Knee replacement surgery can be considered for serious cases where it is clear the joint will remain a source of chronic pain and frustration for the patient.
As people age, they are more likely to develop inflammation in joints like the knee. Athletes and people with a history of knee injury are at higher risk, because their knees have been worked harder. In these individuals, knee osteophytes can be a common part of the aging process. Stretching the joints and using physical therapy exercises to condition them before signs of inflammation and pain set in can be beneficial. It is also advisable to seek medical attention when joint pain onsets, as the earlier arthritis is diagnosed, the more treatment options will be available.
A doctor may use a patient's knee osteophytes to judge the development of progressive joint disease. Repeat X-rays can show how a joint is changing over time and indicate whether the patient is responding to treatment.