Increase in thigh quadriceps muscle (vastus medialis) size linked with decreased pain, cartilage loss, and knee replacement in osteoarthritis

In a recent study the size of thigh muscles (vastus medialis) was evaluated to determine if it is related to decreased knee pain, cartilage loss, and knee replacement in osteoarthritis. One hundred and seventeen patients were followed over the course of 4.5 years. At the end of the four and a half years, it was concluded that knee arthritis patients with greater thigh muscle (vastus medialis) size experienced decreased knee pain and cartilage loss. This further suggests that vastus medialis size is key in diminishing osteoarthritis progression and possible knee replacement surgery.