27 May Knee Arthritis Treatment at a Seattle Pain Clinic

FAQ’s on Knee Arthritis Treatment in Seattle

Arthritis is a known cause of knee pain. Arthritis is defined as an inflammation of one or more joints along with cartilage degradation. The most common symptoms related to arthritis are pain, stiffness and swelling. There are various types of arthritis that can affect the knee joint (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, psoriatic, etc); however, treatment may vary depending on the condition that causes these symptoms.

The most common is Osteoarthritis also known as wear and tear arthritis or degenerative joint disease. It is involves continuous wearing away of the cartilage in the joint. Once the cartilage is completely worn away, the bone become exposed, and the knee becomes very swollen and quite painful.

This condition affects people as they age. The most common one being those who are overweight. Also, knee arthritis is said to be genetic meaning that it can be passed down the family tree.

Some other factors that may lead to knee arthritis include; torn cartilage, injuries to the knee as well as fractures to the bone around the joint.

What are the Symptoms of Knee Arthritis?

Symptoms of arthritis to progress gradually as the condition worsens but the conditions may become even worse due to minor injury or overuse. Some patients may experience prolonged episodes of mild systems, accompanied by sudden changes that may increase the severity of their symptoms. Generally, the pain develops gradually over time. Other common symptoms of knee arthritis are;

• Joints become stiff and swollen and the person experiences difficulty bending and straightening the knees.
• Vigorous activity may cause severe pain
• Severe pain may cause a feeling of weakness in the knee.
• Loose cartilage fragments and other tissues can interfere with the smooth motion of the joints.
• People with arthritis may experience increased joint pain with a rainy weather.

What are the Causes of Knee Arthritis?

There is no proven cause of knee arthritis specially Osteoarthritis. Though, studies have shown that aging and women are prone to being diagnosed with arthritis. The risk factors associated with knee arthritis include;

• Genetic where arthritis runs in the family
• Obesity
• Severe trauma which involves fractures and removal of the supporting cartilages of the knee.

What Tests show you have Knee Arthritis?

Knee arthritis can be diagnosed by use of X-ray which can be taken with the patient standing up where it diagnoses the condition with great accuracy. The doctor will also need to take a thorough history when performing a physical examination.

What are the Treatment Options for Arthritis?

Treatment of arthritis should start with the basic steps and proceed to the more severe and invasive state even to an extent of surgery. For those patients with mild to moderate arthritis, the arthritis can be managed with simple things like an ice rest-activity or joint injections.

Here is a list of the nonoperative treatment options:

• Weight Loss
• Physical therapy
• Cane
• Activity Modification
• TENS Unit
• Knee Bracing
• Topical and oral pain medications (NSAIDS, short term opiates, etc)
• Cortisone Injections
• Hyaluronic Acid Injections (e.g. Synvisc)
• Stem Cell Injections

Seattle Pain Relief has a Double Board Certified pain management doctor offering exceptional nonoperative knee arthritis treatment. This includes all of the above options.

Most insurance is accepted including PPO’s, Workers Compensation and Personal Injury Liens. Along with knee pain, all joint arthritis is treated along with back and neck pain, degenerative disc disease, failed back surgery and more.

Call (855) WASH-PAIN for more information and scheduling with pain management Seattle and Tacoma trusts.