Did you know that 53 million adults in the United States suffer from arthritis? Of those affected, many experience debilitating knee pain that impacts their daily lives and mobility. Knee arthritis is a common condition, but living with the pain doesn’t have to be your only option.
At Dr. Kevin McCarthy's orthopedic practice in Hollywood, FL, we specialize in advanced joint care, offering a wide range of non-surgical treatments for knee arthritis. From personalized physical therapy plans to cutting-edge joint injections, we are committed to helping our patients reduce pain and improve mobility. Schedule an appointment today to take the first step toward living a life with less pain.
Keep reading to discover how non-surgical treatments can make a meaningful difference in managing knee arthritis.
Understanding Knee Arthritis and Its Symptoms
Knee arthritis is a common condition that occurs when the cartilage in your knee joint wears down, leading to pain, stiffness, and inflammation. The most common types of knee arthritis are:
- Osteoarthritis (OA): A degenerative condition typically caused by aging and wear-and-tear on the joint.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks joint tissues.
- Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Develops after an injury to the knee, such as a fracture or ligament tear.
Common knee arthritis symptoms often include:
- Persistent knee pain or tenderness
- Swelling and stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting
- Reduced mobility or difficulty walking
- A grating sensation or popping sound when moving the knee
If these symptoms sound familiar, a thorough evaluation by an expert like Dr. McCarthy can help confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of action.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Knee Arthritis Pain Relief
Surgery isn’t the only solution when it comes to managing knee arthritis. For many patients, non-surgical treatments offer significant relief and improved mobility. Here are some of the most effective options:
Physical Therapy
A customized physical therapy plan strengthens muscles around the knee, improves flexibility, and reduces stress on the joint. This is especially helpful for those managing knee osteoarthritis over the long term.
Joint Injections
Dr. McCarthy offers targeted joint injections, which deliver medication directly into the knee.
- Corticosteroid injections provide rapid relief by reducing inflammation and easing flare-ups.
- Hyaluronic acid injections improve lubrication in the joint, enhancing mobility and reducing stiffness.
- These non-surgical treatments are effective tools in treating knee arthritis and helping patients stay active.
Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or NSAIDs can help manage mild pain. For more severe arthritis knee pain, prescription medications may be recommended.
Lifestyle Changes
Making small changes to your daily routine can make a big difference in managing knee arthritis pain. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, practicing low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling, and using assistive devices such as braces or walking aids.
Assistive Devices
Knee braces and supportive footwear can alleviate stress on an arthritic knee, providing additional support and stability without the need for surgery.
The Role of Physical Therapy and Joint Injections in Managing Knee Arthritis
Two of the most effective non-surgical treatments for knee arthritis are physical therapy and joint injections. These therapies can work together to reduce pain, improve joint function, and delay or even prevent the need for surgery.
Physical Therapy
A well-designed physical therapy plan is tailored to your specific needs. By focusing on strengthening weak muscles, enhancing range of motion, and teaching proper movement techniques, therapy can minimize pain and improve joint function. Dr. McCarthy collaborates closely with physical therapists to ensure every patient’s plan supports their unique goals.
Joint Injections
Joint injections, skillfully performed by Dr. McCarthy, offer targeted relief for knee arthritis by delivering medication directly into the affected joint. Corticosteroid injections provide rapid relief by reducing inflammation and alleviating pain, making them ideal for managing acute flare-ups. Hyaluronic acid injections, on the other hand, help restore the joint's natural lubrication, reducing stiffness and gradually enhancing mobility for long-term comfort.
Together, these treatments can provide a powerful one-two punch in managing the symptoms of knee arthritis.
When Surgery Becomes an Option for Knee Arthritis
While non-surgical treatments often deliver excellent outcomes, there are times when knee replacement surgery or other surgical options may be the best course. This is usually the case if:
- Non-surgical therapies haven’t improved your symptoms after a reasonable period of time.
- Pain significantly interferes with your quality of life and daily activities.
- Severe joint damage or deformity limits your mobility and other treatment options.
Dr. McCarthy provides expert guidance and support, ensuring you understand your surgical options and feel confident in making the right choice.
Regain Confidence With Hollywood’s Arthritis Specialists
Living with knee arthritis can be frustrating and exhausting, but you don’t have to face it alone. Dr. Kevin McCarthy and his team in Hollywood, FL, are here to help. From personalized physical therapy to advanced joint injections, we specialize in non-surgical treatments designed to reduce pain and restore mobility.
Schedule an appointment today with Dr. McCarthy and take the first step toward reclaiming your active, pain-free life. Together, we’ll find the solutions that work best for you.
