Knee replacement surgery is used as last resort after conservative treatments have failed to produce an adequate response. The examination and imaging studies will reveal which component of the knee is affected. Last but not least, surgery is the last route, such as partial or tail knee replacement.
Osteoarthritis of the knee happens when cartilage in your knee joint breaks down. When this happens, the bones in your knee joint rub together, causing friction that makes your knees hurt, become stiff or swell. Osteoarthritis in the knee can’t be cured but there are treatments that can relieve symptoms and slow your condition’s progress.
Running on softer surfaces like grass, trails, gravel, cinder, tracks, sand, or even the treadmill is more forgiving on joints than running on hard asphalt or concrete. Although you should discuss running with your doctor because your needs may differ, there’s evidence to suggest that running does not exacerbate arthritis. It’s worth visiting a physiotherapist to show you what to do to maintain a full range of movement in your joints. However, Matt Bergin, chartered physiotherapist at Performance Team and Witty, Pask and Buckingham Physiotherapists, suggests the following mobility exercise to do at home. A person should consult a doctor before starting a running routine or if they experience new or more intense OA symptoms. During training, a person can consult a doctor if they experience symptoms for 3 or more days in a row or several flare-ups within 1 month.
It’s commonly thought, especially among non-runners, that running will damage your knees over time. But it’s more likely that regular exercise conditions your knees to become more resilient, improving the condition of the cartilage in your joints through regular use. It’s widely believed, even among doctors, that using the joints more often, through a repetitive activity like running, makes the knee and hip cartilage deteriorate more quickly, upping osteoarthritis risk. The efficacy of stem cell injections to treat knee osteoarthritis has not been proven; benefits reported by patients may be the result of anti-inflammatory agents released from the bone marrow or fat. Running regularly helps manage body weight and improve body composition.
Running knee osteoarthritis can be a challenging condition to deal with, especially for those who are passionate about running. It is characterized by the degeneration of the cartilage in the knee joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. While it may seem counterintuitive to continue running with this condition, there are ways to manage it effectively and still enjoy your favorite activity.
The lateral tibiofemoral joint (outer side of the knee) is less commonly so. With advanced OA, crepitus (a grinding sensation) may become noticeable. There also may be visible joint deformity or a feeling that the knee is going to “give out.” Start by taking note of your baseline pain, and keep a keen eye on your knees to ensure that pain isn’t getting worse.
Consult with a Healthcare Professional
If you suspect that you have running knee osteoarthritis, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. They may recommend a combination of treatments such as physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications to help alleviate symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.
Osteoarthritis of the knees has been linked to heredity, obesity, and joint trauma. If your parents, grandparents, uncles, aunts, brothers, or sisters have had knee arthritis, there is a good chance you will, too. If you have had an ACL tear or knee fracture through the articular (bone end) surfaces, you will have arthritis in the knee joint at some time in your life.
Modify Your Running Routine
While it may be tempting to push through the pain, modifying your running routine can help prevent further damage to your knee joint. Consider switching to low-impact activities like swimming or cycling, or incorporating strength training exercises to improve the stability of your knee.
In conclusion, running knee osteoarthritis does not have to mean the end of your running days. By working closely with a healthcare professional, modifying your running routine, and practicing self-care techniques, you can effectively manage your symptoms and continue to lead an active lifestyle.
