Researchers at the University of Central Lancashire in the United Kingdom have developed a method to “listen” to patients’ knees to monitor the progression of arthritis.
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Our knees emit high-frequency sounds that the ear cannot detect |
This ‘listening’ technique is utilized by engineers to detect flaws that could lead to safety issues in high-rise buildings and bridges.
The goal of the researchers is to create a handheld device that analyzes the high-frequency sounds emitted by the knee. This tool will help determine whether arthritis is being effectively treated or worsening.
Typically, while moving, our knees produce high-frequency sounds that are inaudible to the human ear.
The scientists believe that the sound frequencies emitted from the knee of a healthy person differ from those emitted from the knee of someone with arthritis.
Using a device that incorporates a sound sensor and a microphone attached to the knee of arthritis patients, the researchers analyze the high-frequency sounds generated by the knee joint.
In healthy individuals, the knee joints are better lubricated, resulting in smoother, gentler sounds. Conversely, in arthritis patients, the knee joint produces a crackling noise during movement.
This new technique for detecting and monitoring arthritis has proven to be very safe and convenient.
KHANG LINH
