Detection of arthritis by listening to the knee

Scientists at the Lancashire Central University in the UK have invented a way to listen to a patient's knee to monitor the development of arthritis.

Our knees emit high frequency sounds that the ears cannot recognize
(Photo: e-radiography)

This "listening" technique is used by engineers to detect defects that lead to insecurity in tall buildings and bridges.

The aim of the researchers is to be able to invent a hand-held device that analyzes high-frequency sounds produced by the knees. This device will help identify arthritis that is treated well or become worse.

Usually, while moving, our knees emit high-frequency sounds that the ears cannot recognize.

Scientists think that the sound frequency of a healthy person's knee is different from the frequency of sound coming from a knee of a person with arthritis.

Using a device that includes a sound sensing device and a microphone attached to the knee of arthritis, the researchers analyzed high-frequency sounds from joints in the knees.

In healthy people, the joints are more lubricated, so the sound emits softly and gently. In contrast, in people with arthritis, when moving the knee joint creates a rustling sound.

New techniques for detecting and monitoring arthritis are very safe and convenient.

KHANG LINH