-
news
-
Health
Knee problems increase with age – an orthopedic specialist explains the treatment options available
Knee problems increase with age – an orthopedic specialist explains the treatment options available. (Image: Canva)
Why do knee problems increase with age?
Everyday activities like climbing stairs, walking, standing can place stress on the knee, which is a weight-bearing joint. The cartilage that supports our joints wears down over time, leading to inflammation and bone-on-bone friction. As we age, the body also loses the ability to repair tissues, increasing the risk of deformity and injury to our knees. Additionally, the body’s ability to repair tissue slows with age, making knees more susceptible to injury and deformity. In older adults, conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and patellar tendinitis are more common.
Symptoms of age-related knee problems
- Persistent pain or discomfort, especially after activity.
- Stiffness in the morning or after sitting for a long time.
- Swelling or redness around the knee joint.
- Difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods of time.
preventive measures
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts extra stress on the knees, increasing cartilage wear and tear.
- Get regular exercise: Low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, and yoga can strengthen the muscles around the knee without putting too much stress on the joints.
- Stretch daily: Stretching improves flexibility and reduces stiffness, which improves overall joint health.
- Use supportive shoes: Properly fitting shoes with good arch support can help reduce stress on the knees.
treatment options
For people who are already experiencing knee pain, a range of treatments can help manage symptoms and improve mobility:
- Physical therapy: Targeted exercises can strengthen muscles, reduce pain, and improve joint stability.
- Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications and pain relievers can ease discomfort and reduce swelling.
- Injections: Corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid injections can provide temporary relief for swollen or deteriorating joints.
- Regenerative Therapy: At RegenOrthoSport, cutting-edge treatments like Bone Marrow Concentrate (BMC) Therapy provide a non-surgical option for knee pain. This approach uses the body’s natural healing properties to repair damaged cartilage and reduce inflammation.
expert insight
Dr. Venkatesh Movva, renowned orthopedic specialist at RegenOrthoSport, explains, “Age-related knee problems can have a significant impact on daily life. Early diagnosis and personalized treatment plans, including regenerative therapies, can restore function and effectively reduce pain.