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 an independent medical problem. Treatments are available for knee osteophytes to address both the bony growths and the inflammation that causes the osteophytes to develop in the first place. Care may be supervised by a joint specialist or orthopedic surgeon.
Bony projections on the knee can limit range of motion as well as cause pain. They can also cause inflammation, keeping the joint in a chronic state of pain and irritation. When people present to the doctor with knee pain, X-rays may be used to study the knee. If knee osteophytes are present, their severity can be assessed and discussed, and a treatment plan developed.
For patients with relatively mild inflammation and small osteophytes, anti-inflammatory medications, pain management, and physical therapy may be used to address the problem. The joint can be slowly strengthened and the patient can be supported. While the return of perfect joint function is not possible, the patient's pain and soreness will be limited and it is possible to resume many activities.
If the osteophytes are severe and causing serious problems, surgery may need to be considered. In knee surgery, the knee osteophytes will be removed and the surgeon may take other steps to treat the inflammation in the joint. Knee replacement surgery may be considered for severe cases where it is clear that the joint will continue to be a source of chronic pain and frustration for the patient.
As people age, they are more likely to develop inflammation in joints such as the knee. Athletes and people with a history of knee injuries are at higher risk, because their knees have been worked harder. In these individuals, knee osteophytes may 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 appear can be beneficial. It is also advisable to seek medical attention when joint pain starts, as the earlier arthritis is diagnosed, the more treatment options are available.
A physician can use osteophytes from a patient's knee 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.