What are the most effective treatments for knee osteoarthritis?

What are the most effective treatments for knee osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, refers to a condition that affects all major joints of the body. This happens when the cartilage cushioning in the joints breaks down due to daily wear and tear. This commonly occurs in the knee and hip joints and is better understood in stages. 

Stage 1–This stage refers to a state of minor damage to the knee cartilage and is often not a cause for pain or discomfort. If you are at risk for developing the disease, you’d be advised to take the necessary supplements and exercise to relieve any minor symptoms. 

Stage 2–When detected at an early stage, your doctor can chalk out a plan to slow the progression of the disease. Since the pain for knee osteoarthritis or knee arthritis starts gradually, a patient would first be prescribed medications to reduce inflammation to provide relief from the tenderness and make some lifestyle modifications. 

Stage 3 – During the third stage of knee osteoarthritis, the pain and stiffness are prevalent and easily aggravated. Along with making the necessary lifestyle changes, your doctor may also recommend Corticosteroid drugs or viscosupplement injections (providing relief for a few months). 

Stage 4–This stage is considered to be severe, where the knee cartilage has significantly been diminished and the pain is consistent, leaving surgical intervention as the only viable option. Depending on your condition, your doctor will be able to recommend the best procedure for you to realign or replace your knee joint.