As we get older, many of our joints don’t move as easily as they did in the past, especially our knees. Getting on the floor to play with children or our dog can be a time consuming effort. They become bored before we hit the floor and get semi-comfortable. Other pleasurable activities like gardening or even getting into a beach chair can be a chore. Let’s discover the most common types of knee arthritis and how to treat them.
Osteoarthritis
This type of arthritis is known as the wear and tear arthritis or degenerative joint disease. The cartilage wears away and allows bones to rub up against each other causing the pain and inflammation. It is the most common form of knee arthritis, and it becomes progressive affecting other joints as well.
Post-menopausal women are more likely to be affected by osteoarthritis of the knee.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Knee
This type of arthritis is an autoimmune disease. The immune system attacks healthy tissue in the knees, wrists, and ankles. It causes inflammation of the synovial membrane, or capsule that surrounds the entire knee joint, as well as other joints in the body. This inflammation releases substances that slowly break down cartilage over time.
This type of arthritis can affect anyone at any age.
Post-Traumatic Knee Arthritis
This type of arthritis develops after an injury or trauma to the knee. The injury makes the joint less stable and susceptible to the breakdown of cartilage. The injury may heal, but the wear and tear accelerates, however it may take years after the injury for symptoms to appear.
Treatment Options Provided By Dr. Wingert in Seattle or Kirkland, WA
Treatment varies depending on the type of arthritis, your age, the severity of symptoms, and the stage.
Unfortunately, cartilage can not be replaced or reversed. Treatment goals are to reduce pain and stop the progression.
- Activity modification can keep the pain and inflammation from flaring. This might include refraining from high impact exercise like running, but remaining physically active.
- Losing some weight will help to reduce stress on your joints.
- Use a brace to provide stability.
- Physical therapy will strengthen muscles and improve range of motion.
- Injections of hyaluronic acid and medications can ease pain.
- Use a walking aid like a cane.
If non-surgical treatments do not suffice, other treatments and/or procedures may be recommended.
Contact Dr. Wingert’s Seattle or Kirkland office for additional treatment options for all types of knee arthritis.
