Knee arthritis is one of the most common causes of knee pain in Ashland Virginia and typically affects patients as they get older.
There are three basic types of arthritis that may affect the knee joint:
- Osteoarthritis – the most common form of arthritis, and one that most often affects middle-age and older individuals.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis – an inflammatory type of arthritis that can destroy the joint cartilage, and usually affects both knees.
- Post-traumatic Arthritis – can develop after a knee injury such as a fracture, ligament injury or meniscus tear.
Dr Goradia will review non-surgical treatment options for knee arthritis with you and only recommend a partial or total knee replacement if absolutely needed.
Knee Arthritis Symptoms
The most common symptoms of knee arthritis in Ashland Virginia include:
- Pain with activities
- Limited range of motion
- Stiffness of the knee joint
- Swelling in the knee
- Tenderness around the knee
- A feeling that the knee may give out
- Deformity of the knee
Knee Arthritis Diagnosis
Knee Arthritis can be diagnosed through
- A careful medical history of knee symptoms and activity limitations
- A physical examination is conducted to assess knee motion, stability, strength and overall leg alignment
- X-rays are performed to determine the extent of damage and deformity of the knee
Normal knee x-rays have a dark “space” between the bones. This area contains cartilage and meniscus. When the cartilage and meniscus wear down, the “space” decreases which means arthritis.
Non-Surgical Treatment for Arthritis Sufferers
Non-invasive Treatments
- Diet and exercise will help reduce patients’ BMI or Body Mass Index.
- Physical therapy may improve flexibility and strength.
- Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatories can reduce arthritis pain.
- Glucosamine, an over-the-counter supplement, can provide pain relief for some patients with arthritis.
Injections
- Cortisone injections usually begin working within 24 hours but may only last 3-4 months. The injections can be repeated 4 times per year.
- Visco-supplementation (hyaluronic acid)- sometimes called “gel” injections are intended to provide 6 or more months of knee pain relief for patients that are not responding to cortisone injections.
Surgical Treatment Options
- Arthroscopic Surgery can be performed for milder degrees of arthritis.
- Knee Replacement- Read More Here
- Total knee replacement
- Partial knee replacement
Why G2 Orthopedics and Sports Medicine?
We are a small, specialized orthopedic practice in Richmond, VA that provides Advanced Orthopedic Treatment Options, Excellent Results, Personalized Care and Convenient Appointments.
Dr. Vic Goradia is fellowship trained in sports medicine, minimally invasive surgery and knee & shoulder reconstructive surgery. He began practicing in Richmond in 2001 and has extensive experience.
G2 Patient Success Stories
Polly Smith
Polly Smith judges many dog shows including the prestigious Westminster Kennel Club show. Unfortunately severe knee arthritis began to limit her ability travel and judge.
According to Polly, “I had surgery on November 8th and by January 14th, I flew to Arizona and judged 146 dogs. I used to have constant knee pain. Now, I don’t even think about my knees.”
