Causes

The breakdown of cartilage in the knee occurs gradually and may be influenced by a range of factors. Common causes include:

• Aging: Natural wear and tear with age is the most common cause.
• Previous joint injury: Old sports injuries or trauma can contribute to early joint degeneration.
• Repetitive stress: Jobs or activities that involve frequent kneeling, squatting, or heavy lifting may speed up cartilage damage.
• Joint misalignment: Conditions like “knock knees” or bowlegs can place uneven pressure on parts of the joint.
• Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis can increase your risk.
• Inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the joint can accelerate cartilage loss.
• Obesity: Excess body weight increases strain on the knee, hastening joint wear.

Risk factors

Several factors can make a person more likely to develop knee osteoarthritis. These include:

• Having a high body mass index (BMI), especially 30 or above
• Sustaining a previous knee injury
• Engaging in physically demanding work or sports
• Inheriting a genetic predisposition to joint issues
• Having abnormal joint structure or alignment

Being aware of these risk factors can help individuals take preventive measures earlier in life.

Stages

Although not always clearly categorized, knee osteoarthritis tends to progress in stages:

• Stage 1 (Mild): Minor cartilage wear, typically without noticeable symptoms.
• Stage 2 (Early): Cartilage begins to thin. Pain and stiffness may occur during or after activity.
• Stage 3 (Moderate): Significant cartilage damage leads to more frequent pain, reduced range of motion, and occasional joint instability.
• Stage 4 (Severe): Most or all cartilage is lost. Bones rub together directly, causing constant pain, swelling, and joint immobility.

Diagnosis

To diagnose knee osteoarthritis, a healthcare provider will begin with a physical examination and a discussion about your symptoms. They will look for signs such as:

• Swelling, tenderness, or discoloration around the knee
• Pain during movement or when pressing on specific areas
• Limited range of motion or a sensation of joint looseness
• Abnormal gait or difficulty walking

TDiagnostic imaging, such as an X-ray, is typically used to assess the extent of joint damage. In some cases, an MRI or CT scan may be recommended to examine soft tissues more closely.

Treatment Options

One of the innovative, minimally invasive treatment options for knee osteoarthritis is Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE). This image-guided procedure targets the inflamed lining of the knee joint without requiring open surgery.

GAE involves inserting a small catheter through a tiny puncture in the upper thigh. Using real-time X-ray imaging, the doctor navigates the catheter to the genicular arteries—small vessels supplying the inflamed joint tissue. Once positioned, tiny medical particles are released to reduce blood flow to the affected areas. This decrease in blood supply helps reduce inflammation, which in turn alleviates pain, swelling, and stiffness. It is performed under light sedation. The procedure typically takes under 90 minutes, and most patients return home the same day.

What Are My Other Treatment Options?

Conventional options include:

• Physical therapy
• Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications
• Joint injections
• Knee replacement surgery (for advanced cases)

GAE is ideal for those who haven’t responded to these treatments or are not ready or fit for surgery. It also serves as a bridge to surgery when needed.

Why Choose GAE Over Other Traditional Treatments?

• Minimally Invasive: No incisions or bone removal
• Outpatient-Based: No hospital stay
• Quick Recovery: Back to daily life in 1–2 days
• Effective Pain Relief: Relief typically begins in 2 weeks
• Preserves Future Options: Doesn’t rule out knee replacement
• Less Medication: Reduces dependence on painkillers and steroid injections

How Does GAE Work at RIVEA?

Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) is a non-surgical, image-guided procedure performed by our expert interventional radiologist. It targets the small arteries supplying blood to the inflamed synovium (joint lining) in the knee. Here's what to expect:

• Performed under twilight sedation – no general anesthesia.
• A tiny puncture is made in the groin or thigh to access an artery.
• A catheter is guided to the genicular arteries using live X-ray.
• Medical-grade microspheres are released to block abnormal blood flow.
• Inflammation is reduced, relieving pain and improving knee function.
• Most patients go home the same day, with minimal downtime and no stitches.

Learn more about Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE)

Why Choose RIVEA?

At RIVEA Vascular Institute in Hyderabad, we combine technology, expertise, and compassion to offer world-class interventional care. Our team specializes in advanced image-guided procedures designed to reduce pain and improve your quality of life without major surgery. Every patient receives a tailored plan with direct access to their treating specialist, minimal wait times, and comprehensive support throughout their care journey.