Arthritis affecting the knees can make even simple daily activities feel challenging. Whether it is going up the stairs, bending to tie your shoes, or enjoying walks, knee arthritis can significantly limit your mobility and comfort.
However, there are proven ways to manage knee discomfort and improve your quality of life.
Here is how to find help for arthritic knees, ranging from simple lifestyle changes to professional medical treatments.
Understanding Arthritis in the Knees
Arthritis in the knees is a condition where the cartilage in the knee joint wears down or gets inflamed. The two most common types of arthritis in the knee are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis, often called “wear and tear” arthritis, happens when the cartilage breaks down over time. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints.
Symptoms of knee arthritis may include:
- Pain during movement or rest
- Swelling or stiffness, especially in the morning
- Difficulty bending or straightening the knee
- A grinding sensation during knee movement
Why Managing Arthritis Is Crucial
Arthritic knees can significantly reduce mobility, making everyday tasks challenging. If left untreated, arthritis may worsen over time, leading to increased pain, stiffness, and potential joint damage. Proactively managing arthritis through a combination of strategies can help slow its progression, reduce discomfort, and improve overall joint function and quality of life.
Experts recommend working with an orthopedic doctor to create a personalized management plan for the best results.
Strategies to Find Help for Arthritic Knees
Here are some effective methods to manage arthritis in the knees.
Maintain an Active Lifestyle
Regular, low-impact exercises like swimming, walking, or cycling help maintain knee strength and flexibility. Strong leg muscles, especially the quadriceps, provide better joint support and absorb stress.
One valuable exercise is straight leg raises — lying flat, lifting one leg, and holding it briefly before lowering. This movement strengthens knee-supporting muscles without adding unwanted pressure on the joint.
Manage Body Weight
Excess weight adds extra stress to your knees, which can worsen arthritis symptoms over time. Even losing five percent of body weight can significantly reduce joint pain, allowing for better movement.
Focus on a balanced diet rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Use Hot or Cold Therapy
Alternating between heat and cold therapy can help decrease swelling and reduce pain.
- Heat packs relax the muscles and improve circulation.
- Ice packs reduce inflammation and numbing sensations to manage pain after activity.
Apply these treatments for about 15–20 minutes at a time, a few times throughout the day.
Wear Knee Supports
A knee brace offers stability by reducing strain on the affected joint during activities. Compression sleeves also help improve blood flow and reduce swelling, making movement more comfortable.
Make sure to choose a support product that fits properly to avoid restricting circulation.
Consider Physical Therapy
A physical therapist can design a tailored plan that addresses your unique needs, helping to strengthen the surrounding muscles and improve joint alignment.
Regular therapy sessions offer long-term benefits in mobility and pain reduction.
Explore Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) can help manage inflammation and pain. For more advanced cases, your doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections for temporary relief.
Always consult a healthcare professional before starting or altering medication use.
Modify Your Environment
You can make small changes to your home and workspace to reduce strain on your knees:
- Use chairs with good back support
- Install cushioned mats or rugs in areas where you stand for long periods
- Opt for supportive footwear that reduces the impact on your joints
Consider Advanced Medical Options
If lifestyle adjustments and conservative treatments no longer provide relief, medical intervention may be necessary. Below are advanced options to explore with your doctor:
Arthroscopy
A minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves inserting a small camera and tools into the joint to remove damaged cartilage, reduce pain, and improve joint function. It is typically used for less severe joint issues.
Partial or Total Knee Replacement Surgery
For advanced arthritis that severely limits mobility and causes chronic pain, this procedure replaces the damaged parts (partial replacement) or the entire knee joint (total replacement) with artificial components. This can effectively restore mobility and significantly reduce pain.
Help for Arthritic Knees in Dover, NJ
Dealing with arthritis can feel frustrating, but the right help for arthritic knees is available. Combining exercise, diet, medications, and professional care can make a big difference when managing knee pain.
At Orthopedic Associates of West Jersey, we provide specialized care for knee arthritis with personalized treatment plans focusing on your unique needs. From conservative treatments like physical therapy to advanced procedures like joint replacement surgery, our highly skilled orthopedic specialists aim to restore your quality of life.
To learn more about how we can provide help for arthritic knees, call us today at (973) 989-0888 today or use our form appointment request form to schedule your visit. We look forward to serving you!
