Knee joint inflammations can be divided into different categories:

1. Infectious arthritis: Caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi that infect the knee joint.
2. Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the knee joint.
3. Reactive arthritis: Occurs as a result of an infection in another part of the body, such as the urinary tract or intestines.
4. Gouty arthritis: Caused by deposits of uric acid crystals in the knee joint.
5. Psoriatic arthritis: Occurs in patients with psoriasis and often affects the knee joint.

The main causes of knee joint inflammation can be divided into several categories:

- Infections:

- Bacterial infections, e.g., caused by staphylococci, can cause acute arthritis.

- Viral infections, such as those from hepatitis or HIV viruses, can also trigger arthritis.

- Autoimmune diseases:

- In rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system attacks healthy tissue and causes chronic inflammation.

- Crystal deposits:

- Gout or pseudogout arise from the deposition of crystals in the joint, which trigger inflammatory processes.

- Trauma:

- Injuries or overuse of the knee can trigger secondary inflammation.

- Comorbidities:

- Other chronic diseases such as diabetes or psoriasis can promote the development of arthritis.

The symptoms vary depending on the cause and severity of the inflammation, but often include:

- **Pain:** Pain occurs both at rest and during movement, often accompanied by a stabbing or pulling sensation in the knee.

- **Swelling:** Visible and palpable swelling due to the accumulation of fluid in the joint.

- **Redness and warmth:** The affected knee may be red and warmer than the surrounding skin.

- **Movement restrictions:** Difficulty bending and straightening the knee, especially in acute inflammations.

- **Joint stiffness:** The knee is often stiff and difficult to move, particularly after prolonged periods of rest.

- **Instability:** A feeling of insecurity when walking or standing due to swelling or pain.

The diagnosis is made through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and additional tests:

- Medical history:

- The doctor inquires about typical symptoms, possible triggers, and existing preconditions.

- Physical examination:

- Checking for swelling, redness, and tenderness, as well as tests for joint mobility.

- Laboratory tests:

- Analysis of blood values (e.g., inflammatory markers, rheumatoid factor, or uric acid levels).

- Imaging techniques:

- Ultrasound: To assess fluid accumulation in the joint.

- X-ray: Visualization of joint damage or crystal deposits.

- MRI: Detection of soft tissue changes and chronic inflammation.

Conservative Therapy

In most cases, knee joint inflammation can be treated with conservative measures:

• Medication Therapy:
  • NSAIDs for pain relief and anti-inflammation.
  • Corticosteroid injections for acute anti-inflammation.
  • Antibiotics for bacterial infections.
• Physiotherapy:
  • Exercises to improve joint mobility and strengthen surrounding muscles.
• Joint Aspiration:
  • Removal of fluid from the joint for pain relief and analysis.
• Ergonomic Adjustments:
  • Use of walking aids or orthoses to relieve the joint.

Surgical Therapy

In cases of severe or chronic inflammation, surgery may be necessary:

• Arthroscopy:
  • Removal of inflammatory tissue or crystal deposits from the joint.
• Synovectomy:
  • Removal of the inflamed joint lining in rheumatoid arthritis.
• Joint Replacement:
  • Implantation of a prosthesis in cases of irreparable joint damage.

To prevent knee joint inflammation, the following measures are recommended:

1. Infection prevention: Avoid injuries and treat infections promptly.
2. Weight management: A healthy body weight reduces stress on the joints.
3. Regular exercise: Joint-friendly sports like swimming or cycling promote mobility.
4. Early detection: At the first signs of discomfort, a doctor should be consulted promptly.
5. Balanced diet: A healthy diet supports joint health and reduces the risk of crystal deposits.