Arthritis of the Knee

Arthritis knee pain is an extremely common complaint. The age at which it tends to become apparent or problematic varies greatly. Some people can go through virtually the whole of their lives to a ripe old age and never get a sniff of a problem. Others on the other hand are suffering with creaks and groans in their forties.

A lot seems to depend on two things. One being genetics and the other occupation or usage. People with a genetic predisposition to joint degeneration are going to get symptoms no matter what and those who have placed heavy physical sporting and/or occupational demands on their joints are likely to have more wear and tear than people who have not.

Basic signs and symptoms of degeneration of the knee are

* pain

* stiffness

* muscle wasting

* grating known as crepitus.

Treatment of arthritis knee pain consists of a combination of pain relief which can be in the form of local heat; anti inflamatory or analgesic medication; electrotherapy or acupuncture or other alternative medicine together with a sensible exercise regime.

The right exercise progremme can definitely make a big difference to quality of life and knee function. In severe cases of degeneration where pain is not being controlled and the quality of life is grossly affected knee joint replacement surgery is an option.

Knee Joint Replacements

As with most things joint replacement surgery is advancing rapidly. Knee replacements are a common orthopedic operation today. They normally involve a stay in hospital after the operation of a few days.

Rehabilitation is started usually the day after surgery, often much to the patients dislike, as they can be quite swollen and painful. The aim is to get as much flexion or bend in the knee and to get the quadriceps working as soon as possible. This requires diligence on behalf of the therapist and some grit and determination from the patient to get over the initial reluctance to move the knee.

Early and well performed rehabilitation is often the key to maximising recovery from this particular operation. Avoidance of the correct rehabilitation procedures will almost certainly see a poorer result.

More information on knee replacement surgery