Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee causes pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility, which can greatly affect quality of life. Thankfully, individuals can choose from a range of treatment choices that can help alleviate symptoms and enhance joint function. If you suffer from knee osteoarthritis, this detailed guide of Treatment for knee osteoarthritis (ข้อเข่าเสื่อม รักษา which is the term in Thai) will help you discover efficient treatment techniques so you can get back on your feet.
An Introduction To Knee Osteoarthritis
Deterioration of the knee joint’s cartilage is a hallmark of osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint condition. Pain, edema, stiffness, and a decreased range of motion can result from bones rubbing against each other when cartilage wears down. Age, heredity, obesity, past joint injuries, and excessive use are some of the risk factors for osteoarthritis of the knee.
Methods Of Treatment
· Changes To One’s Way Of Life
Managing osteoarthritis of the knee primarily involves making changes to one’s way of life. Due to the increased strain on the knee joints caused by being overweight, managing one’s weight is crucial in alleviating symptoms. Strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee, increasing joint flexibility, and decreasing discomfort can be achieved with regular exercise, especially low-impact activities such as swimming, cycling, and walking.
· Medications
Several drugs can alleviate the swelling and pain of osteoarthritis of the knee. It is usual practice to ease pain and inflammation with over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen and NSAIDs. Topical therapies including capsaicin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be administered directly to the area of pain for localized relief. When inflammation and pain are extreme, injecting corticosteroids into the knee joint may be a lifesaver.
· Devices That Assist
People suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee may find some alleviation and extra support with the help of assistive devices like braces and orthotic inserts. When worn regularly, a knee brace can stabilize the joint, alleviate pain, and increase the range of motion. Wearing orthotic inserts inside shoes can alleviate knee pain and improve mobility by redistributing pressure and encouraging correct alignment.
· Procedures Involving Surgery
Surgical procedures may be required for patients whose knee osteoarthritis has progressed to a point where it substantially diminishes their ability to carry out daily tasks and overall quality of life. To fix particular problems with the knee joint, such as removing damaged tissue or smoothing rough areas, arthroscopic surgery may be done. To restore function and alleviate discomfort, knee replacement surgery, either whole or partial, involves replacing damaged joint surfaces with artificial implants.