Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common orthopedic conditions. Being that the knee is the largest joint in the body, it experiences a great load during weight-bearing activities. Many patients are well aware of surgical procedures used to effectively treat knee osteoarthritis and partial and total knee replacements are more popular than ever. But what about patients who do not want or need surgery? Can their condition be treated non-operatively?
The answer to this question is: OF COURSE! Nonoperative treatment of knee arthritis is the often the preferred treatment method for many patients and their orthopedic specialists. In fact, most cases of knee osteoarthritis are effectively treated using only nonoperative treatment options.
One of the most important parts of effectively treating knee osteoarthritis is timing. Diagnosing osteoarthritis in its early stages allows orthopedic specialists to slow down or stop the progression of the disease before it progresses to the point wherein surgery is the only option. Once our Orthopedic Knee Specialists located in Duxbury or Sandwich, MA officially diagnoses your condition, a holistic and customized treatment plan can be used to provide you with a complete osteoarthritis treatment solution.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Knee Osteoarthritis
Our orthopedic specialists are able to match treatment options to the specific needs of the patient being treated. In many cases, a combination of treatment options is used to quickly decrease symptoms and prevent them from returning. The following are the most commonly prescribed treatment options:
- Reducing or stopping weight-bearing activities for a brief period of time.
- Activity modification. Stopping or modifying pain producing activities.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Over-the-counter and prescription medications that can be taken orally or topically applied.
- Physical therapy. Exercises that help improve flexibility and strength.
- Wearing a brace reduces the load placed on the knee.
Another non-surgical treatment option that can also be used to help quickly decrease pain associated with osteoarthritis are corticosteroid injections. When corticosteroids are injected into the knee joint, they quickly reduce inflammation, swelling, and pain. Injections are typically only used to help decrease severe pain.
Seeking Treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee pain should not dictate the way you live your life. If you are ready to receive your knee osteoarthritis treatment solution, please contact our offices in Plymouth, Duxbury or Sandwich to arrange an appointment with one of our Orthopedic Knee Specialists. A medical history, physical exam, and diagnostic imaging studies will be used to accurately diagnose your condition. You will be given a treatment plan that helps substantially decrease or eliminate your pain. The road to a pain-free life starts when you walk through our doors!