Knee Arthritis: Symptoms, Treatment Methods and Lifestyle Recommendations
Knee osteoarthritis, commonly known as arthritis, is a condition that negatively affects the quality of life of many people. The wear and tear of the cartilage in the knee joint causes the bones to rub against each other, resulting in symptoms such as pain, swelling, and stiffness. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms of arthritis in the knee, treatment methods, and lifestyle recommendations in detail.
Symptoms of Calcification
The most common symptoms of knee arthritis are:
- Pain: Pain felt during physical activity or at rest is the most obvious symptom of arthritis.
- Swelling: Inflammation in the knee joint can cause swelling and tenderness.
- Hardness: Stiffness may be felt in the knee, especially in the morning or after sitting for a long time.
- Sound: When the knee is moved, a clicking or popping sound may be heard.
- Movement Restriction: Arthritis in the knee can make daily activities difficult by restricting joint mobility.
Knee Arthritis Treatment Methods
Drug Treatments
Some medications used in the treatment of knee arthritis are:
- Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): It is widely used to reduce inflammation and pain. It can be applied orally or topically under the supervision of a doctor.
- Painkillers: Medicines such as paracetamol play a supportive role in the management of mild to moderate pain.
Physical Therapy and Exercise Programs
Physical therapy plays an important role in managing osteoarthritis of the knee. The following methods help reduce stress on the knee by strengthening the muscles and protecting the supporting tissues around the joint:
- Personalized Physical Therapy Approaches: Exercise programs designed by physical therapists aim to increase flexibility and improve mobility.
- Water Therapy: Exercises done in water provide ease of movement while minimizing joint damage.
- Low Impact Exercises: Activities such as yoga and pilates have a supportive effect on joint health.
Knee Injection Treatments
Some injection methods used in the treatment of knee arthritis are:
- Corticosteroid Injections: These injections, which are preferred in acute exacerbations, are effective in reducing inflammation and pain.
- Hyaluronic Acid Injections: These injections, which are intended to compensate for the loss of joint fluid, improve mobility by reducing friction within the knee.
- PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma): It is treated by injecting the plasma obtained by centrifuging the blood taken from the patient into the knee joint.
- Exosome Therapy: This method, applied directly to the knee via injection, is painless and fast.
- Stem Cell Therapy: It is a method that encourages the regeneration of damaged cartilage.
Surgical and Minimally Invasive Approaches
Surgical intervention may be required in advanced stages of knee arthritis. These methods include:
- Arthroscopic Surgical Procedures: These procedures, performed with minimally invasive techniques, are effective in relieving pain by cleaning damaged tissues and correcting the joint surface.
- Total Knee Arthroplasty (TDP): In advanced stages of the disease, total knee replacement surgery is an effective method for patients to regain their quality of life.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Lifestyle adjustments to manage knee osteoarthritis include:
- Weight Control: Controlling excess weight reduces the load on the joints and relieves symptoms.
- Healthy eating: Consuming anti-inflammatory foods supports joint health.
- Joint Support Devices: Support devices designed to increase knee stability help make daily activities safer.
Knee arthritis is a condition that negatively affects quality of life. However, with the right treatment methods and lifestyle changes, symptoms can be managed and patients' quality of life can be improved.
