Knee Osteoarthritis
What is Knee Osteoarthritis?
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common orthopedic conditions. It is characterized by the wear and tear of knee cartilage with age. Knee bone becomes inflamed as cartilage loses its integrity and function. Painful bone spurs may develop. Joint space decreases.
Common Causes:
- Age
- Obesity
- Prior traumatic injury
- Smoking
Symptoms for Knee Osteoarthritis may include:
- Pain
- Swelling and stiffness
- Tenderness
- Increased joint pain with rainy weather
- Decreased range of motion
When you arrive for your initial consultation, Orthopedic Physicians Alaska (OPA) team of knee specialists will evaluate your areas of concern, discuss your symptoms, and develop a customized and comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. This evaluation is a necessary part of diagnosing your condition and providing the best possible care.
When diagnosing a knee osteoarthritis, the OPA specialist will provide:
- A medical, injury, and symptom history review
- A physical examination
- Multiple view x-rays
Once an official diagnosis is made, a customized treatment plan is prescribed. Treatment plans decrease symptoms as quickly as possible.
Common Treatments:
Knee OA is a chronic condition. Treatment is focused on decreasing symptoms and preventing OA from becoming worse. OPA knee specialist treatment plan usually consist of a combination of the following:
NSAIDs
Decrease inflammation and pain.
Injections
Steroid and numbing medications quickly decrease OA inflammation and pain.
Physical Therapy
OPA approved physical therapist will provide exercises to strengthen the collateral ligament and surrounding muscles, ligaments and tendons. Surgical intervention may be recommended for knee OA that does not improve after nonsurgical treatment. A partial or total knee arthroplasty removes osteoarthritic cartilage and bone and replaces it with metal and plastic components. Symptoms and quality of life improve tremendously following recovery and physical therapy.
