What is the best treatment for knee osteoarthritis?

Knee osteoarthritis, a common degenerative joint condition, affects millions worldwide. If you or a loved one find yourself seeking respite from the pain and discomfort it brings, you’re not alone. 

In this blog, we will delve into the world of knee osteoarthritis treatments, exploring the options that offer hope, healing, and the promise of a more pain-free tomorrow. 

What is knee osteoarthritis?

Knee osteoarthritis, often called knee OA, is a degenerative joint condition primarily affecting the knee joint. It is the most common form of arthritis that affects the knee. 

Knee OA occurs when the cartilage within your knee joint breaks down, increasing friction between the bones. This can make your knees hurt, become stiff, and sometimes swell.

What causes knee osteoarthritis?

The exact cause of osteoarthritis of the knee is not always clear, and it often results from a combination of factors. 

Here are some of the primary causes of osteoarthritis of the knee:

• Genetics
• Old age
• Being overweight or obese
• Any knee injury, even old ones
• Repeated stress on your knee from your job or playing sports
• Bone deformities, such as crooked bones or joints
• Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and hemochromatosis

It’s important to note that while these factors increase the risk of knee osteoarthritis, it doesn’t guarantee the development of the condition. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing body weight, and 

seeking medical attention for knee injuries or pain can help reduce the risk of knee osteoarthritis.

What are the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis?

The primary symptom of knee osteoarthritis is pain. Your knee might hurt when you move it or while sitting still. 

Other symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee are:

• Your knee feels stiff first thing in the morning or when you’ve been sitting for a long time.
• Your knee looks swollen or feels puffy.
• You hear a cracking or grating sensation when you move your knee.
• You might feel as if your knee is unstable, as though it could give way or buckle.
• Your knee might lock up or feel as if it is stuck.
• Your knee may get puffy all around or on one side.

If you’re experiencing persistent knee pain or any of these symptoms, it is advisable to seek consultation with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and to discuss treatment options.

How is knee osteoarthritis diagnosed?

Your doctor will conduct a physical examination, assessing for swelling, joint warmth, redness, soreness, and instability. Additionally, they will evaluate your ability to move the joint, any pain experienced while bearing weight, any abnormalities in your walking pattern, and signs of previous injury.

X-rays are typically ordered to assess joint space narrowing and bone spurs. In some cases, an MRI may be used to get a picture of both bone and soft tissue. 

Blood tests or knee fluid analysis may be done to rule out other arthritis types.

Also Read: What are the Causes of Knee Pain When Bending?

What are the different treatments for knee osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis of the knee cannot be stopped or reversed. However, osteoarthritis treatments can reduce pain and help you move better. It can also improve your quality of life and help you better keep up with your day-to-day activities.

Your osteoarthritis treatment usually includes a combination of therapies and will depend on your individual needs. These include your medical history, the level of pain you have, and the impact of knee OA on your daily life.

Lifestyle Modifications

Use these basic self-care strategies to manage your symptoms:

• Apply ice or heat to help alleviate stiffness, pain, and swelling.
• Managing a healthy weight to help reduce stress on the knees.
• Keep moving with activities like swimming, biking, or walking.
• Using orthotic devices such as insoles or special footwear.
• Consider acupuncture or massage for pain relief.
• Use a cane, shock-absorbing shoe inserts, or a brace.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy for knee osteoarthritis involves tailored exercises and techniques to improve joint strength, flexibility, and function.

A physical therapist helps individuals with knee osteoarthritis develop an exercise program to reduce pain, enhance mobility, and increase the overall quality of life.

Medications

Various medications, both over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription, can be beneficial to help provide reduce discomfort and pain.

Some medications that may help you manage mild pain and discomfort include:

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol) 
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin)
• Gels or creams that can be rubbed on the knee
• Steroid injections, you can get only three or four per year
• Lubrication injections (hyaluronic acid) 
• Duloxetine (Cymbalta) 

Surgical treatments

Surgical treatment for knee osteoarthritis is considered when non-surgical methods fail to provide sufficient relief from pain and disability.

• Arthroscopy surgery- Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure employing a type of camera called an arthroscope that is used to inspect and treat the inside of the knee. It can be used to remove damaged tissue, clean out loose debris, and make minor repairs.

• Knee osteotomy- When knee joint damage is confined to one side, knee osteotomy becomes a viable surgical option. During this procedure, the surgeon will skillfully cut and reshape the bone. This helps shift weight off the joint’s damaged side, relieves pain, and improves function.

• Total or partial knee replacement– This surgery may be recommended in advanced cases of knee osteoarthritis. In this surgical procedure, the damaged cartilage and bone are removed, and new metal or plastic joint surfaces are implanted to restore the function of the knee.

   

Also Read: Life after Total Knee Replacement Surgery

Book an appointment with Dr. Sartawi for expert osteoarthritis treatment in Dubai

If you’re seeking top-quality osteoarthritis treatment in Dubai, Dr. Sartawi, an arthritis doctor in Dubai, is here to help. 

With his expertise, compassionate care, and commitment to patient well-being, he will work closely with you to develop a tailored treatment plan that suits your needs. 

Do you want a pain-free life?

Book an appointment with Dr. Sartawi today.