Knee osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people around the globe. It can be incredibly debilitating, causing pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. However, there is hope on the horizon with new treatments for knee osteoarthritis that are revolutionizing how we approach this condition.
Let’s explore some of the latest advancements in treating knee osteoarthritis and how they are helping patients move from pain to progress.
What is Knee Osteoarthritis?
A common and debilitating form of arthritis, osteoarthritis (OA), affects about 32.5 million adults in the United States alone.
OA occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time. This wear-and-tear can lead to pain, swelling, and decreased mobility, especially in weight-bearing joints like the knees.
Knee osteoarthritis specifically affects the knee joint, leading to stiffness, swelling, and difficulty in performing day-to-day activities that involve bending the knee.
This condition doesn’t just affect the elderly; it can impact anyone regardless of age, especially those with previous knee injuries, those who are overweight, or those with a family history of arthritis.
Traditional Treatments for Knee Osteoarthritis
For years, treatments for knee osteoarthritis centered around pain management and, in severe cases, knee replacement surgery. Traditional treatments for knee osteoarthritis are:
Medication
Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs are among the most commonly prescribed medications for managing the pain and inflammation associated with knee osteoarthritis. By blocking the enzymes responsible for inflammation, NSAIDs can provide significant relief from pain.
Common NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen sodium (Aleve). While effective, it’s important to use these medications as directed by a physician due to potential side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues or increased risk of heart problems.
Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be recommended for those with mild to moderate knee pain. It works differently from NSAIDs, focusing more on reducing pain rather than inflammation.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a core component of managing knee osteoarthritis. A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program that focuses on strengthening the muscles around the knee, enhancing flexibility, and improving range of motion.
Corticosteroid Injections
For more targeted relief, corticosteroid injections directly into the knee joint can be an effective option. These injections deliver powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly to the site of pain and inflammation, providing rapid and significant relief. The effects of corticosteroid injections can last several weeks to months.
Joint Replacement Surgery
Joint replacement surgery, specifically knee replacement surgery, becomes a viable treatment option for individuals with severe knee osteoarthritis when other treatments fail to relieve pain and improve joint function.
This surgical procedure involves removing the damaged parts of the knee joint and replacing them with artificial components made of metal and plastic. The goal of knee replacement surgery is to restore mobility and enhance the quality of life for patients suffering from the debilitating effects of osteoarthritis.
New Treatments for Knee Osteoarthritis
The world of orthopedics is fast-paced, with scientists and doctors continuously seeking better ways to treat OA. In recent years, new treatments for knee osteoarthritis have emerged, presenting less invasive options and more straightforward paths to recovery.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection for the knee represents a cutting-edge approach to treating knee osteoarthritis. PRP therapy uses components of an individual’s own blood to promote healing and reduce inflammation in the affected knee joint.
When injected into the affected knee joint, the concentrated platelets release growth factors that promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the regeneration of damaged cartilage. This can lead to reduced pain, improved joint function, and potentially slow down the degeneration process within the knee.
Viscosupplementation
Hyaluronic acid injections, also known as viscosupplementation, are a new treatment option for individuals with knee osteoarthritis.
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the synovial fluid surrounding joints, where it acts as a lubricant to enable smooth movements and as a shock absorber to reduce impacts. For those with knee osteoarthritis, the composition and quality of the synovial fluid often deteriorate, leading to increased friction and wear on the cartilage.
Hyaluronic acid injections aim to improve the viscoelastic properties of the synovial fluid, thereby enhancing lubrication and cushioning within the knee joint. This can result in reduced pain, improved mobility, and a better overall function of the knee.
New Treatments for Knee Osteoarthritis in Montgomery County, Maryland
Living with knee osteoarthritis can be a painful and limiting experience, but advancements in treatments like platelet-rich plasma injection and viscosupplementation offer new hope for relief and recovery.
If you’re struggling with knee pain and are considering the latest knee osteoarthritis treatments, look no further than Maryland Orthopedic Specialists. We have a team of skilled orthopedic doctors who offer personalized, innovative treatments for a comprehensive range of orthopedic issues, including knee osteoarthritis.
To learn more about us, contact us today at (301) 515-0900 or schedule an appointment online!
We look forward to serving you!
