Knee Osteoarthritis | Knee Arthritis Treatment

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the Knee

Discomfort as the result of osteoarthritis of the knee joint can be very distressing and, if left untreated, can become increasingly painful and limit mobility and leg function. The ability to exercise and even perform routine daily activities or sleep properly can be affected.

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Osteoarthritis (OA) of the Knee

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Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive condition, caused by long-term wear to the articular, also known as chondral, cartilage which covers the surface of our bones. This tough, rubbery substance protects the bones as they slide against each other, but over time friction wears it down, resulting in pain, swelling and stiffness in the joint.

As the largest weight-bearing joint in the body, the knee is particularly prone to developing knee osteoarthritis. It can either affect the medial, or inner side of the knee, the lateral or outside part of the patellofemoral compartment between the kneecap and thigh.

What are the symptoms of knee arthritis?

Pain
Swelling of the knee joint
Limited range of movement
Stiffness, particularly first thing in the morning or after long stationary periods
The knee joint creaks or makes a crunching noise
Sleep quality affected

Treatments offered

Robotic Knee Replacement

A Patient’s Guide to
Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery

A Patient’s Guide to
Knee Replacement Surgery

FAQs

+ Who is affected by knee arthritis?

As a progressive condition, knee arthritis is most common in older patients. However, an accident or infection or hereditary factors can be a factor. Being overweight will put more pressure on the knee joint and increase wear and tear.

A sporting injury to the joint surface or the knee ligaments can also result in the development of knee arthritis at an earlier stage and more and more younger patients are presenting with pain and stiffness in the knee joint that is preventing them from enjoying normal activities.

+ How is knee arthritis diagnosed?

During your consultation with Mr David Houlihan-Burne, he will discuss your symptoms in-depth and perform a physical examination. An X-ray will show the extent of any damage to the bones, but an MRI scan may also be ordered to rule out any soft tissue damage.

+ How is knee OA treated?

Treatment will depend on the extent of the damage to the knee joint and also the impact that it is having on your life and what you’re hoping to achieve.

Non-surgical treatments for knee arthritis can include medication in the form of painkillers or anti-inflammatories. Mr David Houlihan-Burne will also recommend physiotherapy to improve knee strength and range of movement. Lifestyle changes can improve existing symptoms and prevent further damage to the knee joint.

Hyaluronic acid injections into the knee joint can also help in some cases. The gel-like fluid, known as viscosupplementation, works as a lubricant in the joint.

+ What is the surgical option for those suffering from knee arthritis?

Knee replacement surgery has been used for many years for those suffering from advanced knee arthritis. Click here to find out more about Partial Knee Replacement. Mr David Houlihan-Burne is highly experienced in Robotic Knee Replacement – to learn more about the benefits of this procedure, click here.