Physical therapy is an effective alternative for many people with knee OA who would prefer to avoid or delay surgery. Your physical therapist may recommend how and when to use therapeutic methods such as ice and heat to aid in pain management. Physical therapists are experts at using movement, positioning, and other methods to help reduce pain and avoid the use of medications, including opioids. A TKA is the surgical treatment option for patients failing conservative management and those with osteoarthritis in more than one compartment.
Knee osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the knee joint, making everyday activities challenging. Fortunately, there are various therapies available to help manage the symptoms and improve quality of life for individuals with knee osteoarthritis.
They are structural components of articular cartilage, and the thought is that a supplement will aid in the health of articular cartilage. No strong evidence exists that these supplements are beneficial in knee OA; in fact, there is strong evidence against the use according to the AAOS guidelines. If the patient understands the evidence behind these supplements and is willing to try the supplement, it is a relatively safe option.
The researchers noted that that some trials were tougher than others. So they recommended that the treatment be used cautiously since a lot is still unknown. If your doctor wants to treat the osteoarthritis in the knee with surgery, the options are arthroscopy, osteotomy, and arthroplasty.
Physical Therapy
Like many alternative therapies, magnetic pulse therapy has yet to be proven. During your appointment, your doctor will talk with you about your symptoms and medical history, conduct a physical examination, and possibly order diagnostic tests, such as X-rays or blood tests. Knee arthritis can make it hard to do many everyday activities, such as walking or climbing stairs. It is a major cause of lost work time and a serious disability for many people.
The ACR/AF do not recommend massage, manual therapy, or the use of transcutaneous electrical stimulation (TENS) for OA of the knee. The research has not shown that these alternative therapies are beneficial. That said, massage may have benefits beyond those directly relate to OA discomfort, including reducing your stress level. Treatment usually includes a combination of therapies and lifestyle choices. Experts from the American College of Rheumatology and the Arthritis Foundation (ACR/AF) issue guidelines on which options are most likely to help — but be sure to talk to your doctor before making any changes, big or small, to your treatment plan.
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the management of knee osteoarthritis. A physical therapist can develop a personalized exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. They may also use modalities such as heat or ice therapy to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
FAQs about Physical Therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis:
- How often should I attend physical therapy sessions?
- What type of exercises will I be expected to do?
- How long does it take to see improvements with physical therapy?
Injections
Injections are another common therapy for knee osteoarthritis. Corticosteroid injections can help reduce inflammation and pain in the knee joint, providing temporary relief. Hyaluronic acid injections, also known as viscosupplementation, can help lubricate the joint and improve mobility.
FAQs about Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis:
- Are injections painful?
- How long do the effects of injections last?
- Are there any risks associated with injections?
Overall, therapy for knee osteoarthritis aims to improve symptoms, restore function, and enhance quality of life for individuals living with this condition. By working with healthcare professionals and following a comprehensive treatment plan, individuals can effectively manage their symptoms and continue to lead active, fulfilling lives.
