Not using your joints can cause your muscles to waste and may increase stiffness caused by osteoarthritis. Manual therapy is a technique where a physiotherapist uses their hands to stretch, mobilise and massage the body tissues to keep your joints supple and flexible. Applying hot or cold packs to the joints can relieve the pain and symptoms of osteoarthritis in some people. A hot-water bottle filled with either hot or cold water and applied to the affected area can be very effective in reducing pain. Women in particular are reluctant to get a damaged joint replaced, “to their detriment,” Dr. Aliprantis says. Instead of fixing the problem, women may just accommodate to their increasingly limited mobility.
Osteoarthritis in the knees is a common condition that can cause pain and discomfort for many individuals. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available to help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life.
Exercise
Consult your doctor if over-the-counter medications don’t relieve your pain. RA often affects the joints in the hands, wrists, ankles, knees or shoulders. It is time to educate the population on the growing prevalence of arthritis and encourage lifestyle choices that aid in its prevention. In this process, stem cells are extracted from bone Âmarrow or fat, then injected into an arthritic knee.
When dealing with any health condition it’s important to also look after your mental wellbeing as this can impact your recovery. Osteoarthritis can sometimes mean you need to take some time off work to help recovery. How long you’re off will depend on the nature of your condition and your role at work. The exact cause of osteoarthritis is unknown, however it’s likely that a combination of factors may contribute. If joint replacement is not suitable for you, your surgeon may suggest an operation to fuse your joint in a permanent position, known as an arthrodesis.
Exercise is one of the best ways to treat osteoarthritis in the knees. Low-impact activities such as swimming, cycling, and walking can help strengthen the muscles around the knee joint and improve flexibility. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any exercise program to ensure it is safe and effective.
Weight Management
But some symptoms and causes will require you to get in touch with your healthcare provider. You have different options for OTC topical pain relievers, including creams, sprays, and gels to help manage knee pain from arthritis. Some of these contain the same ingredients that NSAIDs contain.
Weight management is another key component in treating osteoarthritis in the knees. Excess weight can put added stress on the joints, worsening symptoms of arthritis. By maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise, individuals can reduce pressure on the knees and decrease pain and inflammation.
The major types of arthritis that affect the knee are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and posttraumatic arthritis. Around 60% of people with osteoarthritis have symptoms they can notice or feel. Depending on the cause of your problem, he or she may refer you to a doctor specializing in joint diseases (rheumatologist), joint surgery (orthopedic surgeon) or sports medicine.
Medications
Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the knees. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to provide temporary relief from symptoms. It is important to discuss with a doctor about the appropriate medication options for managing osteoarthritis.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can also be beneficial for treating osteoarthritis in the knees. A physical therapist can design a customized exercise program to help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the affected joint. Additionally, they can provide guidance on proper body mechanics to prevent further damage to the knee.
Surgery
In severe cases of osteoarthritis in the knees, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace damaged joint surfaces. Procedures such as arthroscopy, osteotomy, or total knee replacement can help improve mobility and reduce pain for individuals with advanced arthritis. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of surgery with a healthcare provider before making a decision.
