If you have osteoarthritis of the knee, you can take advantage of a wide range of treatment options. Only one in four people with osteoarthritis of the knee need surgery, but the effectiveness of different treatments varies from person to person. The choice of treatment should be a joint decision between you and your physician.
The purpose of treatment is to reduce pain, increase function and generally reduce your symptoms. Patient satisfaction is a fundamental goal in treating osteoarthritis of the knee
In its early stages, arthritis of the knee is treated with nonsurgical measures. Nonsurgical treatments fall into four major groups: lifestyle modifications; exercise; supportive devices; nutritional measures.
Lifestyle modifications can include losing weight, switching from running or jumping exercises to swimming or cycling, and minimizing activities that aggravate the condition, such as climbing stairs. Many, but not all, people with osteoarthritis of the knee are overweight. Simple weight loss can reduce stress on weight bearing joints, such as the knee. Losing weight can result in reduced pain and increased function, particularly in walking.
Exercises can help increase range of motion and flexibility as well as help strengthen the muscles in the leg. Physical therapy and exercise are often effective in reducing pain and improving function. Your physician or a physical therapist can help develop an individualized exercise program that meets your needs and lifestyle
Using supportive devices, such as a cane, wearing energy-absorbing shoes or inserts, or wearing a brace or knee sleeve can be helpful. Some research studies have focused on the use of knee braces for treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee. They may be especially helpful if the arthritis is centered on one side of the knee. A brace can assist with stability and function. There are two types of braces that are often used. An "unloader" brace shifts load away from the affected portion of the knee. A "support" brace helps support the entire knee load. In most studies, the knee symptoms improved, with a decrease in pain on weightbearing and a general ability to walk longer distances.
Simple carbohydrates, such as sugar, high fructose corn syrup, white flour, and flour-based pasta, lead to biochemical changes in the body which cause inflammation. Many patients enjoy pain relief simply by reducing or eliminating these substances from their diet and by increasing their water intake. Soft drinks, whether regular or diet, have a negative effect, either because of their sugar content or their tendency to interfere with the body’s absorption and use of calcium, magnesium, and other essential minerals.
Antioxidants, glucosamine and herbal anti-inflammatories (Glucosatrin contains both), and fish oils (Omega III) normalize the body’s inflammatory response and can provide pain relief without the harmful side effects of prescription medications.
