How to treat degenerative arthritis of the knee?

Degenerative arthritis of the knee is also called hypertrophic arthritis. The main patient group is the elderly. This is related to the severe wear and tear of the knee joints in the elderly and is a manifestation of tissue degenerative changes. For such elderly patients, they must pay attention to rest at ordinary times to avoid worsening of symptoms, reduce the pressure on the joint surface, and exercise moderately to prevent degeneration of the joint capsule.

1. Rest

The pressure and shear force on the affected joints are reduced, causing the synovial inflammation to disappear. It is mostly used in cases where the symptoms of osteoarthritis in the joints are severe and degeneration is aggravated. During acute attacks of individual joints, it is best to rest the affected joint in bed so that the joint capsule and ligaments can relax, thereby reducing pressure on the joint surface.

2. Joint Movement

To prevent capsular contracture, move the joint through its full range of motion several times a day. Most strenuous activities will result in significant stress on the joint surfaces and must be avoided.

3. Use crutches or help from others

Vertical loads on weight-bearing joints can be reduced by using a cane on the opposite side of the joint to reduce gravity. In the advanced stage of osteoarthritis or when bilateral joints are affected, bilateral canes, crutches or assistance are required, and the patient should be taught the correct gait.

4. Use traction

5. Physical therapy

Moist heat therapy after massage and functional exercise (active and passive movement). Avoid forceful restoration of lost joint motion. Plain hot water or wax therapy (Paraffin) can be helpful for painful Heberden's nodes. Although they reduce joint stress, active exercises (isometric exercises) are better than passive exercises (isotonic exercises) for improving muscle strength.