If one of your knees locks up all the time, you may worry about your future. Your knee is one of the most crucial joints in your body. Several things can affect the joint over time, including loose bodies. Learn more about loose bodies and how you can remove them from your knee joint now.

What Are Loose Bodies?

Loose bodies are often signs of osteoarthritis (OA). OA develops when the cartilage covering the surfaces of your knee joint deteriorates. Some of the damaged cartilage breaks off from the bones of the knee and become loose bodies, or floaters. The floating pieces of cartilage eventually become lodged or stuck between the thin bones in your knee. Loose bodies can cause your knee to lock up when you move it. Your knee can also give out when you use it too much, such as when you play tennis or run long miles around your home. Some people may notice a substantial amount of swelling and pain in their knees as well. 

You can't treat the loose bodies inside your knee with regular home remedies. In order to treat your locking knee properly, you will need to see an orthopedist for care. 

How Do You Remove the Loose Bodies in Your Knee?

Before an orthopedist can treat you successfully, they'll need to examine your knee first. Osteoarthritis isn't the only possible cause of loose bodies. Traumatic injuries can also cause loose bodies to form in your knees. Once a doctor knows the reason for your condition, they can provide the most effective treatment for it. 

One of the most common treatments for OA and traumatic knee injuries is arthroscopy, or joint arthroscopy diagnostic procedure. Arthroscopy allows a surgeon to highlight, examine, and treat your knee at the same time. If your procedure goes well, an orthopedist may allow you to go home shortly after your treatment. 

If the joints or bones of your knee are too damaged to repair with arthroscopy, a doctor may use knee replacement surgery instead. Knee replacement surgery is generally longer and more invasive than joint arthroscopy. Some adults require physical therapy (PT) after a full knee replacement surgery. You may also need to take time off work to get through your recovery. If you have concerns about your treatment, speak to a bone specialist right away.

For more information, contact a professional orthopedic office like Ultimate Sports.