Osteoarthritis of the knee is a common condition. It occurs when the cartilage in the knee joint wears away. As this happens, bone rubs on bone, creating pain, stiffness and, in some cases, joint deformity. If your osteoarthritis is severe, you may need knee replacement surgery. However, surgery is usually an option reserved for when other treatments have failed. Before considering knee surgery, you and your doctor may want to try other approaches to relieve your symptoms.
Weight Loss
Being overweight can increase your symptoms and place excess pressure on the knee joint. According to the Arthritis Foundation, "In people with knee osteoarthritis (OA), those who are obese are more likely to develop advanced, end-stage disease than those who are of healthy weight." The best way to lose weight is to combine aerobic exercise and a healthy food plan. Find an activity, such as walking, swimming, biking or dancing, that you enjoy and do it for 30 minutes most days of the week.
Exercise
Exercise will not only help you lose weight, but it can also strengthen and stretch the muscles that surround and support your knee. The "Journal of the American Medical Association" claims that "regular exercise is one of the best treatments for osteoarthritis." Resistance exercise, done with machines, weights or bands, can strengthen the muscles in your hips and thighs. When your muscles are stronger, they can better support your knee joint, which in time can reduce your pain. Stretching exercises for the hips and thighs help to improve your flexibility and reduce stiffness. Your doctor or physical therapist can work with you to find exercises that work for your situation.
Medication
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states that taking non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory pain relievers and muscle-relaxant medication can help improve your symptoms. In some cases, taking medication can ease your symptoms enough that you can participate in exercise. Your doctor may also recommend steroid injections if oral medication is not providing enough relief.
Bracing and Supports
A physical therapist can help you find and learn to properly use a knee brace. According to the Arthritis Foundation and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, in the case of osteoarthritis, bracing the knee may take pressure off the joint, stabilize the joint, allow your knee to rest, protect the joint from further damage and ease symptoms of pain, numbness and tingling. In addition, it may be helpful to use an orthotic and/or a cane to help you walk correctly and take weight off your knee.
Rest and Modalities
According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, you need to balance rest with activity. It is important to learn to listen to your body's signals to know when you can push and when you need to rest. In addition, using heat, ice, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (electrical waves passed through the skin), acupuncture and massage can all be part of a total treatment plan. Visit their website for detailed information on various techniques.
