What is arthritis?

  • Arthritis involves loss of the smooth lining covering the ends of bones in a joint called cartilage. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage becomes damaged and worn out, causing pain, swelling, stiffness and restricted movement in the affected joint.

What are the symptoms?

  • Pain localized to outside or inside of knee, under knee cap, or even in thigh/hip

  • As different parts of the knee wear out earlier than others, knee deformities can develop, such as knock-knees or bow-legged.

Source: AAOS

Stages

 

What are the treatment options?

  • Unfortunately, there is no cure for arthritis and it tends to progress as we get older.

  • Currently, there are several treatments available for knee arthritis, including non-surgical and surgical options.

  • Non-surgical treatments include weight loss, exercise, physical therapy, use of canes or braces, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and corticosteroid injections.

  • Surgical treatment for knee arthritis is a joint replacement surgery. This involves replacing the damaged joint surface with an artificial joint.


When should I get a knee replacement?

  • If you are considered a candidate for a total knee replacement and we determine there is a high likelihood that it will help your current symptoms, the decision to proceed with surgery is up to you.

  •  Nighttime pain, difficulty sleeping, inability to do activities, and unpredictability of the joint are important factors to consider.

  • The goal of surgery is to improve your pain and quality of life.

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