Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
08 May 2017 08:16
Noisy knees could signal a greater problem
Researchers in the US are recommending that anyone experiencing the symptoms of so-called 'noisy knees' should have them checked out, as they may be an early sign of osteoarthritis.
Those suffering with grating, cracking or popping sounds in and around the knee joints could well be receiving a signal that they more likely to develop the condition, the Texas-based scientists claim.
Researchers conducted a multi-centre observational study that included almost 3,500 participants at high risk of knee osteoarthritis.
The chances of them developing pain symptoms over a period of up to four years increased with greater frequency of knee noise.
It doubled when the noises were heard "often" and trebled for patients who said they "always" experienced them.
The findings, published in the journal Arthritis Care & Research, may lead to new ways of diagnosing and treating osteoarthritis earlier, said the researchers.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear damaging the surfaces of joints and tends to affect older people.
A third of people aged 45 and over in the UK have sought treatment for osteoarthritis, a total of 8.75 million. It is advised that sufferers protect themselves with seniors travel insurance when travelling abroad.
The condition is not the same as rheumatoid arthritis, which is an auto-immune disease.
What the experts say
US lead author Dr Grace Lo, from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas, said: "Many people who have signs of osteoarthritis on X-rays do not necessarily complain of pain, and there are no known strategies for preventing the development of pain in this group of people.
"This study suggests that if these people have noisy knees, they are at higher risk for developing pain within the next year compared with the people who do not have noisy knees.
"Future studies that target people who have X-ray signs of osteoarthritis, and who do not complain of pain but do report noisy knees, hold the promise of identifying interventions that can prevent knee pain."
21 January 2020
As a new year begins we ask what it means to be a European Capital of Culture.
[more...]
There's no better time to visit Rijeka, as the Croatian city celebrates European Capital of Culture status.
Plan your Irish itinerary around Galway's Capital of Culture highlights.
06 January 2020
Looking for some inspiration for your next holiday destination? Here's a list of our favourite destinations for 2020.
Get the most out of your 2020 getaway with our top holiday planning tips.
Discover a new passion this winter with one of these alternative winter sports.
Stay safe out on the slopes with our 5 top safety tips for winter sports...
Is learning a language your new year's resolution? Try one of these interactive apps to help you on your way.
20 December 2019
Take to the slopes in 2020 at one of our favourite winter sport destinations...
Join us on a quick culinary tour to see what the world will be feasting on over the festive period...
19 December 2019
Think nice rather than naughty, with our tips to making the most of a Christmas getaway with the kids...
Tackle the trials and tribulations of Christmas travel with our easy to follow tips.