Currently there are an estimated 10 million people in the United States that suffer from knee osteoarthritis. It is one of the most common causes of disability in the United States. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, osteoarthritis of the knee is one of the five leading causes of disability among both men and women. Osteoarthritis is characterized by degeneration of the knee cartilage. The cartilage is the lining of the joint, which is often due to wear and tear, knee injuries, overuse, or obesity. Typically, if you have knee osteoarthritis, the pain is worse after activity, especially overuse of the affected knee. Sufferers often notice stiffness, especially after sitting for prolonged periods of time. Osteoarthritis can progress and the symptoms generally become more severe as degeneration worsens. The signs of symptoms of knee osteoarthritis include pain, stiffness, decreasing range of motion, muscle weakness and atrophy, crepitus, or crackling of the joint, deformity, and Baker cyst.
What is knee osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of knee arthritis. When your knees are healthy, they bend and straighten because of a smooth, slippery tissue called an articular cartilage. This lines the joint and protects and cushions the ends of the bones that form the knee joint. There is two C-shaped pieces of cartilage that act as the shock absorbers and cushion the knee joint. Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage to wear away. This happens over time. When the cartilage wears away, it becomes frayed and rough. Moving the bone along this exposed section is painful and may include stiffness. If it wears away completely you can have bone rubbing on bone. The symptoms of knee osteoarthritis include pain and stiffness. The symptoms tend to be worse in the morning or after a period of inactivity.
What are the causes of knee osteoarthritis?
There are many factors that increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis: Age, heredity, weight, injury, overuse, and other illnesses.
Age: The ability of the cartilage to heal itself decreases as we age. Osteoarthritis typically affects people who are middle aged or older.
Heredity: Certain genes have been linked to the development of osteoarthritis. There are other inherited traits, such as being bow-legged, knock-kneed, double jointed, that may increase your risk for ostearthritis.
Weight: The more you weigh the more stress you put on your knee joints and the faster osteoarthritis can develop.
Injury: A history of knee injuries, such as a sports injury, can lead to osteoarthritis later in life.
Overuse History: People who are in occupations that involve repeated kneeling, squatting, bending, lifting, and walking are vulnerable to repetitive stress injuries of the knees. This can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
Other Conditions: If you have a history of gout, knee infection, or Lyme disease, you may be at increased risk for osteoarthritis.
Viscosupplementation Therapy:
Hyalgan was the first type of natural knee injection approved by the FDA in 1996. Viscosupplementation therapy is a procedure involving injection of a gel-like substance into the knee joint to supplement the already naturally occurring synovial fluid. This procedure alone has been shown to be 86% successful in alleviating pain associated with osteoarthritis. It is covered by most major medical insurances, insurance providers, and Medicare. At the Kozmary Center for Pain Management, we utilize Hyalgan as our injectable choice for viscosupplementation therapy. It consists of a mixture of sodium hyaluronate that is found naturally and extracted from rooster combs. We also utilize a breakthrough piece of medical equipment at our facility called fluoroscopy. This is very important to the accurate placement of Hyalgan in the knee joint. It allows the medical staff to place the injection with pinpoint accuracy. It also reduces the likelihood of any risks associated with the injections. The instrument helps to ensure that the injected material is introduced into the exact point intended, and therefore provides the best possible outcome from each injection. This is why, if you have tried any type of pain reduction injection elsewhere without success, we may still be able to help you, as your original injection may have never made it to the right place.
Are you a candidate?
Do you wake up with stiff knees? Do your knees hurt when you are going up or down stairs? Do you frequently take medication for knee pain? Do activities you enjoy cause pain around the knees? Have you been told you need knee replacement surgery? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may suffer from osteoarthritis of the knee.
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Knee osteoarthritis manifests through various symptoms that can significantly impact daily activities. Common signs include persistent pain during or after movement, stiffness particularly after periods of inactivity, and a noticeable decrease in range of motion. Patients may also experience a sensation of grating or crackling when moving the knee, known as crepitus, which is often accompanied by swelling and tenderness around the joint.
These symptoms can vary in intensity and may worsen with activity or prolonged periods of sitting. For instance, individuals might find it increasingly difficult to climb stairs or engage in physical activities they once enjoyed. Recognizing these symptoms early can lead to more effective management and treatment options, helping to maintain mobility and improve quality of life.
Treatment Options for Knee Osteoarthritis
There are several treatment options available for managing knee osteoarthritis, ranging from conservative approaches to surgical interventions. Initial treatments often include physical therapy, weight management, and the use of anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate pain and improve joint function. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to provide temporary relief from inflammation and discomfort.
For patients who do not respond to conservative treatments, more advanced options like viscosupplementation therapy may be considered. This procedure involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the knee joint to improve lubrication and reduce pain. In severe cases, surgical options such as arthroscopy or knee replacement may be necessary to restore function and alleviate chronic pain. It is essential for patients to work closely with their healthcare provider to determine the most suitable treatment plan based on their specific condition and lifestyle.
Risk Factors for Developing Knee Osteoarthritis
Certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing knee osteoarthritis, making awareness crucial for prevention. Age is a significant factor, as the risk tends to rise with advancing years due to natural wear and tear on the joints. Additionally, individuals with a family history of arthritis may have a genetic predisposition to the condition, further emphasizing the importance of monitoring joint health.
Other contributing factors include obesity, which places extra stress on weight-bearing joints, and previous knee injuries, which can accelerate cartilage degeneration. Occupational hazards that involve repetitive knee movements or heavy lifting also play a role in increasing the risk of osteoarthritis. By understanding these risk factors, individuals can take proactive measures to minimize their chances of developing knee osteoarthritis through lifestyle modifications and regular check-ups.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Knee Pain
It is essential to know when to seek medical attention for knee pain, especially if it persists or worsens over time. If knee pain interferes with daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, or participating in sports, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Early evaluation can help identify the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment, potentially preventing further joint damage.
Additionally, if symptoms such as swelling, redness, or warmth around the knee joint occur, or if the knee becomes unstable, medical advice should be sought promptly. These signs may indicate more serious conditions that require immediate intervention. Regular check-ups can also be beneficial for individuals at higher risk of knee osteoarthritis, ensuring timely management and support.
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Understanding Chronic Pain Management
Chronic pain management involves a holistic approach to alleviate long-term pain conditions that can significantly impact a patient's quality of life. At Cleveland Pain Specialists, we focus on understanding the underlying causes of chronic pain to tailor effective treatment plans for each individual.
Our methods include a combination of medication management, physical therapy, and advanced interventions like spinal cord stimulation. By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of chronic pain, we aim to empower patients to regain control over their lives and improve their overall well-being.
Innovative Treatment Options Available
At Cleveland Pain Specialists, we offer a range of innovative treatment options designed to provide relief for various pain conditions. Our clinic stays updated with the latest advancements in pain management, ensuring our patients receive the best possible care.
From minimally invasive procedures like nerve blocks to cutting-edge therapies such as regenerative medicine, our team is dedicated to exploring all avenues for effective pain relief. We also provide personalized care plans that take into account each patient's unique circumstances and treatment goals.
Patient-Centered Care Philosophy
Our patient-centered care philosophy prioritizes the needs and preferences of our patients throughout their treatment journey. We believe that effective communication and collaboration between patients and healthcare providers are crucial for achieving optimal outcomes in pain management.
At Cleveland Pain Specialists, we encourage patients to actively participate in their treatment plans, fostering a supportive environment where they feel heard and valued. This approach not only enhances the patient experience but also leads to better adherence to treatment protocols and improved health outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pain Management
We understand that navigating pain management can raise many questions for patients. To address common concerns, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions that provide valuable information about our services, treatment options, and what to expect during your visits.
From inquiries about the types of pain we treat to the details of our treatment methodologies, our FAQ section aims to empower patients with knowledge. This resource is designed to help alleviate any uncertainties and enhance the overall patient experience at Cleveland Pain Specialists.
