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In many cases, acute knee pain can be the result of injury to the joint or surrounding tissue. Chronic knee pain, on the other hand, tends to be caused by some type of arthritis, usually osteoarthritis.
“Osteoarthritis develops as the protective cartilage wears away from the bones over time. The knee pain and swelling is caused by exposed bones rubbing, making it difficult to execute daily activities,” explains knee specialist Dr. Demetris Delos who practices at the Greenwich and Stamford offices of Orthopaedic and Neurosurgery Specialists. Genetics, past injuries to the knee or cartilage and fractures to the bones surrounding the knee can predispose someone to this ailment.
Since there is no cure for those suffering from arthritis, it is important to take measures to prevents symptoms from worsening. For people who are overweight, diet modification and weight loss is an important treatment and in many cases, can relieve a significant amount of pain. Activity modification, physical therapy and anti-inflammatory pain medications also help to alleviate pain and inflammation. In some cases, cortisone injections can provide relief. However, cortisone can have its own downsides, so it is not considered a long term solution.
When traditional non-surgical methods fail and the severity of pain interferes with quality of life, it may be time to explore surgical options. In younger patients with limited disease, an osteotomy that adjusts the load bearing axis of the knee can be a good option. In more severe cases, partial or total knee replacement is a common recommendation.
Individuals whose arthritis is confined to a limited area are the best candidates for partial knee surgery. Persistent knee pain should not be ignored as it can create more serious problems down the road. If your knee pain is making life miserable, take the time to consult with a physician to determine which course of action is best.
To learn more about how to keep your knees pain free, visit ONS' website.
