Synovial fluid is present, and it helps reduce friction, supporting the movement of the knee. A person may start to notice stiffness and joint pain, especially after resting for a while. At this stage, a person is unlikely to experience discomfort or pain. Cream containing capsaicin may be applied to skin over a painful joint to relieve pain.
Knee osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the cartilage in the knee joint wears down over time, leading to pain, inflammation, and limited mobility. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available to help manage the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis and improve quality of life.
Physical Therapy
One effective way to find relief for knee osteoarthritis is through physical therapy. A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee joint and improve range of motion. These exercises can help reduce pain and improve overall function in the affected knee.
Immunomodulators such as tumor necrosis factor inhibitors and interleukin-1 receptor antagonists are not effective and have significant risks. Similarly, bisphosphonates, methotrexate, and hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) do not improve pain or function but have significant toxicities. The guideline recommends against glucosamine alone or with chondroitin because treatment does not improve knee and hip OA in studies without industry funding. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis (a condition that affects your joints). Healthcare providers sometimes refer to it as degenerative joint disease or OA.
Experts have identified some genes that might cause arthritis, including arthritis of the knee. You could have a gene linked to arthritis without knowing it and a virus or injury could trigger arthritis of the knee. By Carol EusticeCarol Eustice is a writer covering arthritis and chronic illness, who herself has been diagnosed with both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Weight Management
Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that happens when cartilage in your joints wears down. Without that slippery, smooth shock absorber, your joints can feel stiff, painful or like they’re grinding together when you use them. Usually, the ends of bones in your joints are capped in a layer of tough, smooth cartilage.
That cartilage takes a beating, though, and small tears naturally develop as the malleable material grows more rigid over time. The articular cartilage in your knee eventually starts to flatten and stiffen like an old chair pad. Your ability to cope despite pain and disability caused by osteoarthritis often determines how much of an impact osteoarthritis will have on your life. Talk to your doctor if you’re feeling frustrated, because he or she may have ideas to help you cope or be able to refer you to someone who can help.
Another important aspect of managing knee osteoarthritis is maintaining a healthy weight. Excess weight puts added stress on the knee joint, exacerbating symptoms of pain and inflammation. By losing weight through a combination of diet and exercise, individuals with knee osteoarthritis can experience significant relief and improved mobility.
Capsaicin is made from chillies, so if you get it on sensitive areas of your body, it’s likely to be very painful for a few hours. Opioids, such as codeine, are another type of painkiller that may help relieve severe pain. A GP may prescribe a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Discuss any new exercise plan with your GP or physiotherapist before you start. They can help you plan a suitable exercise programme for you.
Medication
In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage the pain associated with knee osteoarthritis. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Acetaminophen may also be recommended for pain relief.
Injections
For individuals who do not respond to other forms of treatment, injections may be recommended to provide relief for knee osteoarthritis. Corticosteroid injections can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the affected joint. Hyaluronic acid injections may also be used to lubricate the joint and improve mobility.
Surgery
In severe cases of knee osteoarthritis where other treatments have been ineffective, surgery may be necessary to provide relief. Procedures such as arthroscopy, osteotomy, or knee replacement surgery may be recommended to repair or replace damaged tissue in the knee joint. These surgeries can help restore function and alleviate pain.
In conclusion,
There are several options available to help individuals find relief for knee osteoarthritis and improve their quality of life. Whether through physical therapy, weight management, medication, injections, or surgery, it is important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for each individual’s unique needs. With the right approach, it is possible to manage the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis and maintain an active lifestyle.
