Have you got a knee OA diagnosis?
- Stiff, inflamed and painful around the knee joint?
- Clicking or grinding sounds?
- Reduced range of movement?
These are common symptoms that patients present with prior to being diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the knee.
Knee OA is a chronic condition that progressively deteriorates. Repetitive or ongoing stress on the knee joint that consequently results in the breakdown of cartilage forms the basis for a diagnosis of OA. This condition affects the entire knee joint including the articular cartilage, meniscus as well as ligaments and muscles.
Can I avoid knee OA?
There are factors you can control to some extent that may decrease your risk of developing knee osteoarthritis.
- Do you have a history of diabetes?
- A history of cancer?
- Are you affected by cardiovascular disease?
- Do you have a walking disability?
- Are you carrying extra weight?
Other factors such as age, family history, trauma and malalignment also contribute. The earlier you start taking care of yourself, the better chance you have of reducing the symptoms and severity of knee OA, or avoiding it altogether.
What is the treatment for knee OA?
Unfortunately there’s no cure for OA, but it is manageable, and surgery can be avoided. A range of treatment methods are available, and should be utilised early in an effort to avoid surgery.
At Concentric Rehab, all our physiotherapists are skilled in the use of manual therapy techniques such as massage and joint mobilisation to reduce pain and symptoms. In conjunction with individualised pain management strategies, a knee OA diagnosis can be managed to slow progression of the condition and improve quality of life.
Current evidence shows that exercise programs designed to improve muscle strength are beneficial in the management of knee OA. Specifically, exercises that strengthen quads, hamstrings and calf muscles stabilise the knee and consequently improve symptoms.
What else can I do?
You can also take steps to relieve your knee pain and improve your condition without medication. Foam rolling can provide relief and can be done at home – of course if you’re unsure if this is suitable for you, just check with your physio. It’s a safe and effective form of home exercise, and our foam rollers are on special during August!
Surgical intervention is not always necessary or effective. Ask your physiotherapist about a conservative management plan first.
Keeping a safe and long term outcome in mind is the best way to approach management of knee OA. Your physiotherapists at Concentric Rehab can help ascertain the right course of action for you.
If you’ve got knee OA or are concerned about your risk of developing this condition, take the first step to and contact us to put a plan in place. We can help.