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Tuesday 26 March 2013

Arthritis of the Knee: Types, Symptoms, and Treatments

here are three basic types of arthritis that may affect the knee joint. Osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of knee arthritis.

Arthritis anywhere in the body can range from moderately uncomfortable to debilitating. When you have arthritis of the knee, it can be particularly troublesome because it interferes with your mobility. If you think you may have arthritis of the knee, it is best to see an orthopedic doctor for evaluation. An orthopedist can provide treatment options to help you manage your arthritis and preserve your quality of life.

Types of Knee Arthritis
Knee arthritis can occur in one of three types: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or post-traumatic arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative and progressive condition that wears away the joint cartilage over time, while rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory illness that damages the cartilage. Post-traumatic arthritis occurs when there has been an injury to the knee, sometimes years after the injury occurred.

Symptoms of Knee Arthritis
Regardless of the type of knee arthritis, the symptoms are similar. You may feel stiffness or swelling that makes bending the knee difficult or uncomfortable. Weather conditions may seem to aggravate your discomfort. You may feel as though your knee is locked, or it could buckle from beneath you from weakness. Pain can worsen after physical activity, but is often worst upon rising after sleep or other inactivity.

Treatments for Knee Arthritis
The treatment that your orthopedist recommends will depend on both the type of knee arthritis you have and how far it has progressed. Non-surgical options include wearing or using supportive devices to reduce strain on the joint, physical therapy or exercise, and taking measures to become healthier overall. Your orthopedist may also prescribe medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, pain relievers, drugs to support joint health, or others. An orthopedic surgeon can perform corrective surgery if your condition is not responding to non-surgical techniques and medications.

For more information about treating knee arthritis, contact Nirschl Orthopaedic Center. We can diagnose the type of arthritis you have and devise a treatment plan to give you relief. Call (703) 525-2200 to schedule an appointment with our orthopedist, or visit our website to learn more about our orthopedic doctors.

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