Knee Osteoarthritis is more than just a sign of aging; it is a progressive “wear and tear” of the cartilage that cushions your joints. When this cushion thins, bones rub against each other, causing pain and stiffness. Dr. Ahmed Sallam, Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon, provides a comprehensive look at managing this condition.
Stages of Knee Osteoarthritis
- Early Stages (Grade 1 & 2): Mild pain after physical activity. Treatment focuses on physiotherapy, muscle strengthening, and weight management.
- Advanced Stages (Grade 3 & 4): Significant cartilage loss, leading to bone-on-bone friction, visible leg bowing, and persistent pain even at rest.
Non-Surgical Gold Standards
Before considering surgery, Dr. Ahmed Sallam recommends:
- Hyaluronic Acid Injections: To restore joint lubrication and improve mobility.
- Biological Injections (PRP): To reduce chronic inflammation within the joint.
- Weight Loss: Reducing body weight significantly unloads the pressure on the knee joint.
Knee Replacement Surgery: The Ultimate Solution
For advanced cases, Total Knee Arthroplasty (Knee Replacement) is a life-changing procedure. Modern surgical techniques allow for:
- Total elimination of chronic pain.
- Correction of leg deformities and bowing.
- A rapid return to an active lifestyle with high-durability prosthetic joints.