Question
  
sirmy age 44 weight 100kg india...my joint space knee appeared reduced more than 50 percentage radiological only x ray..actulay I have no any significant problem in walking,climbing steps,standing more than 1 hour
some experts say that if joint space radiologicaly as per x ray appears reduced 75 percent you may stay life long without arthritis problem by reducing weight or changing life style with specific excercise..while some experts say that within 5 years you may have to change joint by replacement operation ..who are coorect?can person stay without much more difficulty for life long without operation even
with 75 percent reduction of knee joint space(cartilage space)?
some experts say that radiological appearance of joint space is not correct picture of possible serious joint problems.is it true?  

Answer
Dear Mr Thinker,   The best diagnostic tool for oseoarthritis is an MRI of the affect area...  In this case an MRI of the knee would be needed inorder to get an exact percentage of cartiledge reduction.... plain  x-rays are just not that good....

Yes, weight loss, proper exercise and proper diet can help people with osteoarthritis....  Unfotunately is will NOT add lost cartiledge to the joint area....  Only surgery or injections into the affected joint will do that....

Thank you,   karen