Degenerative disease of the knee joint is also known as osteoarthritis or OA of the knees. According to Medline Plus, OA occurs when the cartilage--cushioning--between the patient's bones wear away. OA also leads to the weakening of ligaments and muscles around the joint. OA of the knee usually is caused by aging, but other conditions, such as being overweight, can impact its development. Several complications can result from a degenerative disease of the knee joint.
Adverse Reaction to Treatment Drugs
Adverse reactions to treatment drugs can result as a complication of a degenerative disease of the knee joint. To treat OA, doctors often recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs also known as NSAIDs. The long-term use of these drugs can cause stomach problems like ulcers and bleeding. They are also known to increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes in patients who take them for long periods of time.
Decrease in Ability to Perform Daily Activities
A decrease in the ability to perform daily activities can be experienced by patients with a degenerative disease of the knee joint. As the cartilage in the joints of the knee wears out, patients with OA experience pain when they put weight or pressure on the joint. Stiffness in the knee joints makes it very difficult for patients to bend their knees, which complicates daily activities.
Surgical Complications
The American Society of Orthopedic Surgeons reports that knee replacement surgery may be performed when nonsurgical treatments have failed to relieve pain and swelling in the knee. Surgeons remove the damaged joint lining, realign the joints or fuse the ends of the bones together to prevent joint motion. Complications may occur during or following surgery.
