Easing Osteoarthritis Pain Without Surgery

Knee osteoarthritis currently strikes more than 30 million adults in the U.S. over the age of 50 (according to the CDC-Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). It is the painful wearing down of cartilage within the knee joint causing stiffness, swelling, and limited range of motion.

 

We treat it frequently here at Texas Orthopedics.

 

Many of those suffering from this degenerative disease fear that surgery to repair or fully replace the joint (known as total knee replacement surgery) is the only option to treat the pain and better facilitate movement.

 

Not true…according to a new report published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 

 

The research shows that corticosteroid injections prove highly effective in managing pain and swelling, decreasing stiffness, and improving joint function for up to six months.

 

Steroid injections are a good option for those who are apprehensive about surgery. Although they are not a permanent solution, the shots provide sufficient relief while a patient can be exploring additional non-surgical possibilities for treatment.

 

Other ways to help manage symptoms of knee osteoarthritis include:

• Maintaining a healthy body weight. Every one pound of weight can feel like up to five pounds of pressure on the damaged joint.
• Eating a balanced diet. Make sure to get plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and foods with anti-inflammatory properties such as blueberries, ginger, salmon, and spinach.
• Keeping active with physical activity to encourage joint health and flexibility. Yoga and swimming are great, low-impact options, as well as just walking for as little as thirty minutes a day.

Personalized physical therapy can also be helpful following specific exercises designed to strengthen and support the joint and surrounding ligaments. If you are suffering from symptoms of knee osteoarthritis, and would like to speak with one of our specialists about the benefits of steroid injections or other treatments, please contact us here for an appointment.

 

Keep up with Texas Orthopedics news by following us on Facebook and Twitter (@TexasOrthopedic).

 

(Adapted from AAOS-the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons)