Knee Osteoarthritis 2.0: The Physio Prescription You Need

I. Introduction to Knee Osteoarthritis:

The standard and chronic degenerative joint disease known as knee osteoarthritis (OA) mainly damages the cartilage, the smooth, cushioning tissue covering the ends of bones in the knee joint. Its defining features are pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased range of motion in the affected joint. Knee osteoarthritis is a leading cause of disability, particularly among older adults, significantly impacting their mobility and quality of life. Individuals with knee osteoarthritis should seek appropriate treatment and management to enhance their symptoms and overall well-being.

II. Importance of physiotherapy in managing symptoms

The most effective treatment for knee osteoarthritis is physiotherapy. It has the potential to enhance mobility and alleviate discomfort by improving flexibility, strength, and function in the affected joint. Furthermore, physiotherapy can conduct educational sessions on appropriate body mechanics and exercises to assist individuals in more effectively managing their condition daily. Individuals with knee osteoarthritis can experience substantial quality-of-life enhancements by integrating physiotherapy into their treatment regimen. Additionally, physiotherapists can advise on lifestyle modifications and assistive devices to assist individuals in effectively managing their symptoms.

Recent research in the physiotherapy treatment and rehabilitation of knee osteoarthritis (OA) has highlighted several evidence-based approaches:

• Hot and cold therapy for pain relief:

Hot therapy temporarily relieves muscle aches and pains surrounding the knee joint region. The distal end of the hamstring muscle generally becomes stiff in arthritic conditions, so this hot therapy is beneficial for knee pain.

Cold therapy is generally used to reduce joint effusion or swelling. Due to meniscal injury or injury to the other soft tissues, swelling or edema typically appears in the knee joint. So, this cold therapy relieves swelling or pain.

• TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation):

A TENS machine passes a weak electrical current to your nerves, which can help ease pain. TENS can help relieve certain types of short-term and long-term pain, such as:

• Pain caused by a condition like arthritis or endometriosis

• Period pain

• Labour pain in pregnancy

• Pain caused by a sports injury

III. Exercise and Physical Training;

Engaging in regular physical activity is fundamental in managing knee OA. Exercise helps strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee, enhances joint flexibility, and alleviates pain. Recommended exercises include:

• Strengthening Exercises:

Focusing on the quadriceps and hamstrings can improve knee stability. Examples include seated knee extensions and standing hamstring curls.

• Low-impact aerobic activities:

Walking, swimming, and water aerobics can enhance cardiovascular health without placing excessive stress on the knees.

• Flexibility and Balance Training:

Incorporating stretching routines and balance exercises, like tai chi and yoga, can improve joint function and reduce the risk of falls.

• Manual Therapy:

While some studies suggest that manual therapy, including massage, may offer benefits, the evidence remains inconclusive. It’s essential to consult with a qualified physical therapist to determine the appropriateness of such interventions.

• Aquatic Therapy

Aquatic exercises are safe and effective for individuals with knee OA. The buoyancy of water reduces joint stress, facilitating movement and exercise performance.

• Weight management:

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial, as excess body weight increases stress on knee joints, exacerbating OA symptoms. Weight loss can lead to significant improvements in pain and function.

• Assistive Devices:

Some individuals may benefit from knee braces, which may provide support and alleviate pain. However, their effectiveness can vary, and potential discomfort or skin irritation should be considered. Custom orthotics or shoe insoles have not consistently demonstrated significant benefits for medial knee OA.

• Surgical Interventions:

Surgical options such as knee arthroplasty (joint replacement) may be considered when conservative treatments are ineffective. Recent discussions highlight concerns about the costs and necessity of specific surgical procedures, emphasizing the importance of evaluating each case individually.

Consulting with healthcare professionals to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to individual needs and preferences is essential.

IV. Long-term Management and Prevention

• Home exercise programs

It includes proper guidance about strengthening or balancing exercises, how much weight you should apply for strengthening tasks, how to perform these exercises in the correct position, and how many repetitions you should perform while doing every single exercise. By taking care of these, one should manage their osteoarthritis to enhance knee joint mobility and make life easier.

• Lifestyle modification:

• Patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) should avoid activities that can trigger pain symptoms.

• Use the commode for urination or micturition.

• Avoid climbing stairs too much.

• Avoid foods that trigger joint effusion or ESR rate in the blood, such as rice, potatoes, cauliflower, and cold drinks.

• Wear medicated shoes to prevent stress on the knee joint.

• Wear knee braces or other assistive devices after consultation with your expert physical therapist.

• Proper Consultation:

Consult with your healthcare provider properly to manage knee osteoarthritis or joint-related diseases. This will enhance your road to recovery. Expert opinion significantly affects managing symptoms like joint effusion, inflammation, muscle stiffness, or stress reduction. For a consultant opinion, please make an appointment with our expert physical therapist, Dr. Usman BarKatPT.

V. Conclusive remarks from Dr Usman Barkat, PT

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent joint condition resulting from a combination of factors such as junk food, sedentary lifestyles, poor walking patterns, and prolonged sitting. Dr. Usman Barkat, a physical therapist, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, a healthy diet, ergonomic sitting, and regular exercise to combat this inflammatory condition. By adopting these measures, patients can live a pain-free and mobile life, highlighting the need for proper joint care and lifestyle changes.