Knee Arthritis Treatment in Glendale, CA

Arthritis is inflammation of one or more of your joints.  There are more than 100 types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is most common. This is the ‘wear and tear’ type of arthritis.

As of 2020, about 20% of US adults are affected by arthritis. More than 1/3 US adults older than 60 have X-ray evidence of arthritis.

Although there is no cure for arthritis, there are many treatment options available to help manage pain and keep people staying active.

In osteoarthritis, the cartilage in the knee joint gradually wears away. As the cartilage wears away, it becomes frayed and rough, and the protective space between the bones decreases. This can result in bone rubbing on bone and produce painful bone spurs.

Osteoarthritis usually develops slowly and the pain it causes worsens over time.  The joint may become stiff and swollen, making it difficult to bend and straighten the knee.  Pain and swelling may be worse in the morning, or after sitting or resting.  Vigorous activity may cause pain to flare up.

Loose fragments of cartilage and other tissue can interfere with the smooth motion of joints. The knee may “lock” or “stick” during movement. It may creak, click, snap or make a grinding noise (crepitus).  Pain may cause a feeling of weakness or buckling in the knee.  Many people with arthritis note increased joint pain with changes in the weather.

Treatment options include physical therapy and exercise.  Anti-inflammatory medications or supplements can be used. 

If non-operative treatment fails, surgery can be performed to relieve pain and improve function.  Knee arthroscopy, partial or total knee replacement are all options depending on the severity of the arthritis.

Contact Adventist Orthopedics today to get help for your knee pain.