Taking the stairs used to be effortless - now every step is a reminder. That morning stiffness, the hesitation before standing up, the careful way you navigate steps – these aren't just signs of getting older.
Knee osteoarthritis affects millions, but recognising it early can make all the difference in keeping you active and pain-free.
Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is essentially wear-and-tear of the knee cartilage over time. The cartilage in our knees acts as a cushion, allowing smooth movement. With osteoarthritis, this cartilage gradually wears away, leading to stiffness, swelling, and pain. Common symptoms include:
- Pain during walking or climbing stairs
- Stiffness in the knee
- Swelling around the knee
- Grinding or cracking sensations when moving
- Reduced ability to bend or straighten the knee fully
Diagnosing the Problem
Our doctors assess your condition through a comprehensive approach. This includes understanding your symptoms and how they affect your daily activities, performing a physical examination to evaluate knee movement and stability, and using imaging such as X-rays or other scans for detailed evaluation. Based on these findings, our doctors can discuss the treatment options available and recommend a plan based on your condition and activity goals.
Do I Need Surgery?
There are many different options for treating knee osteoarthritis, and surgery is not the only option. A tailored treatment plan with a stepwise approach is utilised to manage your condition effectively.
Treatment That Fits Your Needs
Every patient's condition is different, requiring a tailored treatment plan with a stepwise approach.
Physiotherapy and Lifestyle Modification form the foundation of treatment. Guided
exercise programmes strengthen the muscles around the knee joint, providing better support and reducing pain.
Weight management is often recommended to reduce the pressure on the knee joint.
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Joint Injections may be offered depending on your condition. These can help reduce pain and swelling in the knee joint, providing relief when conservative treatments need additional support.
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Surgical Options are considered when symptoms are severe or significantly affecting your quality of life. The most common operation is a knee replacement surgery, where damaged parts of the knee joint are removed and replaced with artificial implants to relieve pain and restore smooth movement.
At TTSH, we employ modern knee replacement techniques and enhanced recovery methods. Navigation-guided, or robotic-assisted technology ensure accurate and precise positioning of implants. Our
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol allows patients to return to daily activities more quickly.
With these advanced techniques, patients can walk on the same day after their surgery. Up to 40% of patients may undergo a knee replacement in a day surgery setting, while 70% are discharged within 1-2 days.
Don't Let Knee Pain Slow You Down
Knee osteoarthritis is manageable, but it's not something to ignore if it's affecting your daily life. Early assessment and appropriate treatment can help you maintain mobility and prevent further complications. Our dedicated team of
knee specialists and physiotherapists will guide you to the best treatment option for your condition and lifestyle, helping you regain function and get back to what matters most.
Request an appointment with TTSH Orthopaedics today