Conversation: The conversation between human and AI assistant.
[|Human|] My right knee makes a squishing noise and at times a lot of pain going up and down the stairs. At times also I could just be standing and my knee just pops similar to cracking your knuckles. I have pain with just walking and I am unable to bear wear weight.
[|AI|]  Hello, I have studied your case. According to your symptoms and findings there is osteoarthritis of your knee. You can start cartilage protecting medication like Chen Chat Doctor. I will advise doing X-ray knee and if required MRI knee can be done and if there is severe destruction of menisci then arthroscopic shaving can be done. Physiotherapy like ultrasound and tens will help, along with knee exercises.Lifestyle changes will help in reducing pain which include, LOAD REDUCTION : Protecting the joint from excessive load may slow down the rate of cartilage loss. It is also effective in relieving pain. The heavier you are, the more stress you put on your joints. Weight reduction for obese patients, wearing shock-absorbing shoes, avoiding activities like climbing stairs and using a walking stick are worthwhile. ACTIVITY MODIFICATION -It is important to maintain as much activity and joint motion as possible, but impact activities will aggravate arthritis. Running and jumping will often accelerate cartilage loss from the joint. The key is to focus on low impact activities, such as swimming or cycling.  USING CANES: Assistive devices can make it easier to go about your day without stressing your painful joint. A cane may take weight off your knee or hip as you walk. Carry the cane in the hand opposite the leg that hurts. ANALGESIC MEDICATION : Simple over the counter medications like acetaminophen is sufficient in most cases. If this fails to control pain, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory