Your Options For Non-Operative Knee Arthritis Treatment Near Delaware

Knee arthritis is inflammation of the joint that causes swelling, stiffness, pain and sometimes deformity. There are many types of arthritis, but the most common types of arthritis are:

• Inflammatory Arthritis - More commonly found in conditions such as Psoriatic Arthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus. This is where enzymes in the joint are released which destroys the cartilage because of how soft the enzymes make it.

• Osteoarthritis - This type of arthritis is sometimes genetic. This is when bones rub together, causing the cartilage to wear away over time. This may cause severe pain and disability.

• Traumatic Arthritis - This is where a fall or trauma to the joint happens and heals improperly and the extra force causes the cartilage to wear away.

Learning More About Non-Surgical Treatment Options

With any knee condition, your orthopaedist will usually suggest that you take the non-surgical approach before considering surgery. We at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute provide for you an array of methods to help maintain a lifestyle that allows you to enjoy yourself once again. Some of these methods include:

• Medication - There are several types of medications from ibuprofen that is taken orally to corticosteroids that are injected. It is best to check with your doctor for which medication may be suitable for you.

• Physical Therapy - Exercises and stretches are prescribed for the specific injury that can help increase flexibility and range of motion of the knee and leg.

• Assistive Devices - This can be anything from canes to braces, knee sleeves and shock-absorbing shoes.

• Lifestyle Modification - There are many lifestyle changes that can aid in the healing of your knee while lessening the severity of the wear and tear. Some activities that should be minimized would be high-impact activities such as climbing stairs, running long distances. Instead you should switch from high impact activities to low impact (like running to swimming) and lose weight to reduce the stress placed on your knee.

• Other Remedies - You can apply heat or ice, use pain-relief cream or wear an elastic bandage to provide the support to relieve pain.

For more information on how Rothman Orthopaedic Institute can provide non-operative knee arthritis treatment near Delaware, give us a call at 1-800-321-9999.