Knee Osteoarthritis, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Physical Therapy

Knee OA is a type of progressive disease that causes degeneration & inflammation of the knee joint that gradually becomes worse over time. It affects the entire joint, which includes the bone, ligament, cartilage and muscle. Its progression gets influenced by one’s age, body mass index, genetics, and bone structure, strength and activity level. Knee OA can also develop as a secondary condition following a traumatic knee injury. Depending on the stage of the disease and whether there are associated injuries or conditions, knee OA can be treated with physical therapy. Severe cases may need surgery.

 Symptoms of knee OA may include:

• ·         Extreme pain after changing from a position to other or after an activity..
• ·         Stiffness of bent knee after prolonged sitting
• ·         Sensation of a popping, cracking, or grinding sound while moving the knee
• ·         Swelling following an activity
• ·         Knee joint extreme tenderness

 It’s always better to consult a physician in the case of prolonged knee pain.

Diagnosis

Knee OA could be diagnosed based on the symptoms and then a thorough clinical examination. Diagnostic imaging is also very effective in diagnosing knee OA. Through these examinations the strength, mobility and flexibility of the knee’s movement can be measured. X rays might also be used to assess variety of knee positions that bears weight.

Knee OA & Physical Therapy

Physical therapist will advise you on certain exercises that would address your pain and maximize knee function.  These activities are prescribed and monitored based on type, frequency, duration, and intensity, with adequate time allotted for rest and recovery.

·         Range of Motion is assessed by the physical therapist

·         Muscle Strengthening programs are carried out as a part of rehabilitation program

·         Strengthening the hip and core muscles also can help balance the amount of force on the knee joint, particularly during walking or running.

·         Manual Therapy decreases pain and increases knee functions

·         Modalities like heat and ice aids in pain management

·         Bracing: Compressive sleeves placed around the knee may help reduce pain and swelling. Bracing unloads the weight along the knee area while heavier activities.

Come to us at Optimum Physical Therapy center, NYC and experience the best of available treatments for injuries and rehabilitation programs.