OSTEOARHTRITIS OF THE KNEE (KNEE ARTHRITIS)
When the cartilage on the surface of the knee (articular cartilage) has been completely
destroyed and motion and mobility becomes painful and limited the knee most likely
has osteoarthritis. Often the alignment of the leg will become more bowed or knocked
depending if the cartilage has been predominately worn out on the inside or outside
of the knee, respectively. When the ability to walk is restricted, night time pain
occurs, knee swelling is persistent, a limp begins and the leg becomes bowed or
knocked, joint replacement surgery may be in order. The diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis
can be made by physical examination by a physician and reliably confirmed with weight
bearing X-rays. In many cases joint replacement surgery can be delayed with the
use of several conservative treatments, including an Unloader brace. If you can
prolong the need for joint replacement, by wearing a brace, then you have accomplished
the goal of treatment.
Recommendations:
- Consult a physician if you think you have knee osteoarthritis
- Weight control is important to decrease the amount of force across the knee joint
- Warm up and stretch before, during, and after an activity, for muscle and tendon
flexibility
- Develop stronger quadriceps and hamstrings help cushion the impact of jumping or
running on the knee
- Develop a Cross-training program to prevent repetitive impact on the knee cartilage
- Use Knee supports and Knee Unloader Braces