Are you searching for the best knee osteoarthritis treatment to ease your pain and improve mobility? Are you unsure about whether you should consider surgical treatment?
Knee osteoarthritis can make simple activities challenging, but there are several effective options to help manage symptoms. With the right approach, you can find significant relief without the need for invasive surgery.
Let us explore the best treatment options available for knee osteoarthritis and what Baylis & Brown Orthopedics can do to support your recovery journey.
Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is a common joint condition caused by the breakdown of the cartilage that cushions the bones in your knee. Over time, this wear and tear can lead to symptoms like:
- Pain and stiffness
- Swelling in the joint
- Reduced range of motion
- Difficulty performing routine activities
Osteoarthritis often develops with age but can also be influenced by factors like injuries, obesity, or family history.
While advanced cases may require surgery, many people find relief through non-surgical treatments and lifestyle changes. The key is finding the combination that works best for you.
Best Non-Surgical Treatments for Knee Osteoarthritis
Many non-invasive treatment options can ease osteoarthritis pain, reduce stiffness, and improve joint function.
Here are some of the most effective approaches.
1. Medications
Over-the-counter or prescription-strength medications are a practical way to control pain and inflammation. These include:
- Acetaminophen for mild pain relief.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen.
- Topical creams or gels applied directly to the knee for localized relief.
It is always important to consult with your doctor to find the safest and most effective options for you.
2. Cortisone and Hyaluronic Acid Injections
When symptoms flare up, minimally invasive injections provide temporary relief.
Your orthopedic doctor may recommend the following:
- Cortisone injections can help decrease inflammation and provide short-term pain relief.
- Hyaluronic acid injections work to enhance joint lubrication, which can reduce stiffness and improve motion.
These treatments are not long-term solutions but can complement other therapies to provide effective relief.
3. Regenerative Therapy
Emerging treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy are showing promising results for reducing pain and supporting joint health. Combining PRP therapy with lifestyle changes like regular activity, a healthy diet, and ergonomic tools can further improve your quality of life.
Top Lifestyle Changes to Relieve Osteoarthritis Pain
In addition to the non-surgical medical treatments above, there are adjustments that patients can make in their daily lives to enhance pain relief.
Many orthopedic doctors may recommend the following lifestyle changes to enhance treatment.
1. Regular Exercise & Physical Therapy
Exercise plays an important role in managing knee osteoarthritis. Strengthening the muscles surrounding your knee provides support and reduces joint stress. A physical therapist may recommend:
- Quadriceps and hamstring exercises to strengthen the front and back of the leg.
- Low-impact aerobic activities like swimming, cycling, or walking to maintain joint function without excessive strain.
- Stretching and range-of-motion exercises to enhance flexibility.
Being consistent with these exercises can help improve mobility and manage pain.
2. Weight Management
Carrying excess weight puts additional pressure on the knee joint. Losing just a few pounds can make a noticeable difference in the stress on your knee joints.
Your orthopedic doctor may recommend dietary changes in addition to low-impact exercises to help you reduce pressure on your knee joints.
3. Knee Braces and Assistive Devices
Braces can help redistribute weight in the knee, reducing strain on the affected area.
Other assistive tools like canes, walkers, or orthotics can further minimize joint stress and improve mobility during daily tasks.
When to Consider Surgery for Knee Osteoarthritis
While conservative treatments and lifestyle adjustments can manage symptoms of knee osteoarthritis, surgery may be necessary in more severe or advanced cases.
Surgery is typically recommended when the condition significantly impacts daily activities and non-surgical treatments no longer provide sufficient relief.
Common surgical options include:
- Arthroscopy, which involves removing damaged cartilage or bone fragments.
- Osteotomy, where the alignment of the knee is corrected.
- Total or partial knee replacement, which replaces the damaged joint with prosthetic components.
Your orthopedic doctor will ultimately help you make your decision to consider orthopedic surgery for your osteoarthritis.
How Baylis & Brown Orthopedics Can Help
At Baylis & Brown Orthopedics, we specialize in diagnosing and treating knee osteoarthritis with care and expertise. If you are looking for the best knee osteoarthritis treatment, Dr. Baylis and our experienced team are here to guide you through every step of your recovery.
Dr. Baylis, a leading expert in knee conditions, offers:
- Personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique symptoms and goals.
- Recommendations for therapies like physical therapy, injections, or braces.
- Access to the latest advancements in non-surgical care.
Our goal is to improve your mobility, alleviate pain, and help you regain your independence.
Best Treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis in Plantation, FL
Knee osteoarthritis does not have to hold you back from living your life to the fullest. Many non-surgical solutions can help you manage pain and improve mobility. When surgery is required, your orthopedic doctor can help you make the right decision.
With years of experience and a patient-centered approach, Dr. Baylis and the team at Baylis & Brown Orthopedics are dedicated to providing expert care and innovative treatments. We focus on finding solutions that work best for you, offering compassionate and personalized support every step of the way.
Take the first step toward a better quality of life. Call Baylis & Brown Orthopedics today at (954) 476-8800 or use our appointment request form to schedule a consultation.
Together, we can explore treatment options designed just for you.
