Treating Osteoarthritis In The Knee

There are many types of arthritis the knee can be afflicted with, but osteoarthritis is what Dr. Nikesh Seth sees most often. At Integrated Pain Consultants, a variety of alternative therapies are available to treat a wide range of issues, including the pain and immobilization of a knee with osteoarthritis. With osteoarthritis in any joint, pain grows over time. However, it can sometimes feel like the pain is acute and sudden.

Knee Osteoarthritis Treatments

Common symptoms include a stiff and swollen knee. You might find it difficult to bend or straighten it completely. Pain is often worse in the morning and when sitting for an extended period. Physical activity can also cause pain flare-up. When there are loose pieces of cartilage in the knee, it can get in the way of smooth joint motions. This can make the knee feel like it locks in movement. You may also hear a snapping, grinding, or clicking sound (although if you have a creaky knee, it can also be caused by a number of other factors).

Some patients with knee osteoarthritis report a buckling or weakness in the knee. There is also the common idea that joint pain increases with rainy weather, and surprisingly, studies have shown that this is a real phenomenon. No matter what kind of symptoms your osteoarthritis comes with, know that there are options besides surgery or long-term painkillers.

Integrated Pain Consultants offers viscosupplementation, a special injectable that may be recommended when other conservative methods have failed. There are a variety of brand names, including Hyalagan, Supartz, and Orthovisc, and all of the most effective injectables are offered here. During the procedure, a thick gel packed with proteins and a type of naturally-occurring acid is injected into the knee joint. This allows for instant lubrication and decreased inflammation.

Viscosupplementation Treatment for Osteoarthritis

The type of viscosupplementation recommended for you will be dictated by your body, the degree of osteoarthritis, and your goals. To find out more about injectables to treat osteoarthritis, contact Integrated Pain Consultants at 480-626-2552.