Osteoarthritis of the knee
Osteoarthritis of the knee is a common problem in society today. It poses a significant burden on the individual in terms of pain and suffering and health care costs. It also has a significant impact on the person’s quality of life. The two main risk factors for knee osteoarthritis are obesity and what the scientists call an increased knee adduction moment. This moment is a force related to the angle of the knee, with bow legs being the most significant factor that increases these forces through the knee. It usually starts as an ache inside the knee, but is almost always progressive.
Early in the stages of knee osteoarthritis, exercises to strengthen the knee muscles are helpful. Some drugs such as glucosamine and mild anti-inflammatory drugs are often helpful. As the arthritis progresses, more physical therapy is usually needed. Eventually if it progresses, the only option is knee replacement surgery.
Recently a lot of attention has been paid to the use of lateral wedges for medial knee osteoarthritis. Lateral wedges cost less than a dollar and are wedges placed in the shoe to change the angle of the foot which changes the mechanics of the knee. They only work for medial arthritis, which primarily affects the inside of the knee. They do not work for arthritis on the outside of the knee. Research has shown that lateral wedging generally do improve symptoms in a large proportion of people. There are also a significant group that they do not seem to work in, but given their relatively low cost, not harm is done.
Anyone with knee osteoarthritis should seek health professional advice.
Related posts:
- Is Your Favorite Pet Dog Walking Considerably More Gently? Canine rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most seen canine...
- Should You Take Generic Drugs? So, should you buy generic drugs? The answer is a...
- Hyaluronic Acid May Help With Joint Pain And Arthritis Every movement you make requires your joints to help your...
- Foot Massager These helpful devices will definitely help you relax and enjoy...
- Caring For Your Feet Arch support inserts have helped many people from all walks...
