If you’re suffering from arthritis in your knees, you aren’t alone. Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of knee pain. It develops when cartilage in the knee wears away over time. Cartilage is a slippery tissue that provides cushion and allows the bones of the knee to glide during movement. Signs of knee arthritis include pain, swelling and stiffness.
Knees help us get around. If you’re in pain, chances are you aren’t able to do the things you love or even the things you need to do. Treating arthritis is important to get you back to your everyday life.
Treatment options for knee arthritis
“Treatment for knee arthritis is individualized and should address both pain and functionality to get you back to normal life with as little pain as possible,” says Dr. Daniel Valaik, a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon with Riverside Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists, who specializes in total joint replacements of hips and knees. Your doctor may recommend one or several of the following treatments as part of your plan of care:
Medications
- Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil)
- Pain relievers such as acetametaphin (Tylenol)
- Prescription medications
Therapy
- Occupational therapy trains you to complete normal everyday tasks like getting in and out of the shower while reducing pain and pressure on your knees.
- Physical therapy helps you strengthen the muscles that support your knee. You’ll complete exercises that make you stronger and more flexible.
Lifestyle
- “Weight loss takes pressure of your knees, reduces pain and increases mobility. Every pound matters,” says Dr. Valaik. A sustainable program of weight loss includes both changes to diet and exercise. Increasing your activity and reducing high calorie foods like soda, fried foods and desserts is a good start.
- A routine of rest, ice and elevation will alleviate pain and swelling as you’re working through your treatment program.
Surgery
Some types of arthritis will require surgery. Your physician will work with you to determine if surgery is the right fit for you.
- Cortisone injections are a corticosteroid shot into the knee to reduce pain and swelling.
- Knee replacement removes the diseased joint and replaces it with a prosthetic joint.
Individualized Treatment is Key to Success
Orthopedic doctors are the experts when it comes to treating knee arthritis. Your return to everyday life is their top priority.
Don’t suffer in pain, call us today at 757-534-9988 and let your experts help you.
