Arthritis in the knee joint occurs as a result of degeneration of the cartilage in the knee. Osteoarthritis is commonly referred to as "wear-and-tear" arthritis or degenerative arthritis, and may manifest itself as a stiff, painful joint that may occasionally "lock" or "give way" during walking. Due to osteoarthritis, the cartilage in the knee breaks down over time and the result is a severely damaged joint surface with bone rubbing on bone. This process may occur as a result of previous trauma to the joint, ligament instability or abnormal stresses to the joint.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory process that results in erosion of the articular cartilage and sub sequent damage to the knee joint surface. partial knee replacement, also called UNI-compartmental, is not indicated in cases of rheumatoid arthritis.
Available Treatment Options
- Lifestyle Modification: losing weight, avoiding aggravating activities, modifying exercise to low impact activities only
- Exercises: specifically prescribed to improve strength and flexibility without exacerbating your pain
- Anti-inflammatory Medications: designed to decrease swelling in the joint and provide temporary pain relief
- Corticosteroid Injection: powerful anti-inflammatory agent injected directly into the joint
- Joint Fluid Therapy: a series of injections directly into your knee, designed to improve lubrication in the joint (find out more at www.supartz.com)
- Glucosamine/Chondroitin: dietary supplements that support joint health
- Bracing: used to provide external stability to the knee joint
- Arthroscopic Surgery: minimally invasive procedure to remove debris or repair torn cartilage
- Partial Knee Replacement Surgery: surgical procedure that replaces one or two compartments of the knee
- Total Knee Replacement Surgery: surgical procedure that replaces all three compartments of the knee (find out more at www.RediscoverYourGo.com)
All information provided on this website is for information purposes only. Every patient's case is unique and each patient should follow his or her doctor's specific instructions. Please discuss nutrition, medication and treatment options with your doctor to make sure you are getting the proper care for your particular situation. If you are seeking this information in an emergency situation, please call 911 and seek emergency help.
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