Knee osteoarthritis affects over 32.5 million adults in the United States, making it one of the most common causes of chronic knee pain and mobility challenges. The condition can significantly impact your daily activities, from climbing stairs to enjoying walks through the French Quarter.
Jefferson Orthopedic Clinic has been providing expert orthopedic treatment in Louisiana for over 41 years, helping patients manage knee osteoarthritis and regain their quality of life. Our board-certified specialists offer comprehensive pain management solutions, from conservative treatments to advanced surgical options. Ready to take control of your knee pain? Schedule an appointment with our experienced team today.
Here are five proven strategies to help you manage knee osteoarthritis pain and maintain an active lifestyle in the Crescent City.
1. Explore Medication and Injection Options for Knee Pain Relief
- Over-the-Counter Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Prescription Medications: Used for more persistent knee pain as recommended by your doctor.
- Viscosupplementation: Hyaluronic acid injections restore lubrication and cushioning in the joint, easing osteoarthritis pain.
- Corticosteroid Injections: Provide relief from severe flare-ups, helping manage pain for weeks or months.
2. Incorporate Low-Impact Knee Osteoarthritis Exercises
- Swimming & Water Aerobics: Low-impact, reduces pressure on knees while strengthening muscles.
- Walking: Stick to flat surfaces to minimize joint stress.
- Stationary Cycling: Gentle on joints, great for building strength.
- Stretching Routines: Helps maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness.
- Physical Therapy: Work with a licensed therapist for a personalized exercise plan.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight for Better Joint Health
Excess weight places additional stress on your knee joints, accelerating cartilage breakdown and increasing pain levels. Even modest weight loss can provide significant relief for people with knee osteoarthritis.
Each pound of body weight translates to approximately four pounds of pressure on your knees during walking. This means losing just 10 pounds can reduce knee stress by 40 pounds with each step you take.
Working with a nutritionist or your primary care physician can help you develop a sustainable weight management plan that complements your knee osteoarthritis treatment.
4. Make Lifestyle Adjustments for New Orleans' Humid Climate
Living in New Orleans presents unique challenges for managing joint pain. High humidity and barometric pressure changes can increase stiffness and discomfort for many people with osteoarthritis.
Stay hydrated throughout the day, as proper hydration helps maintain joint lubrication. Consider using air conditioning or dehumidifiers during particularly humid periods to create a more comfortable indoor environment.
Plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day, typically early morning or evening. Gentle stretching before getting out of bed can help reduce morning stiffness that often worsens in humid conditions.
5. Understand When Surgery May Be Necessary
While conservative treatments effectively manage knee osteoarthritis for many patients, some cases require surgical intervention. Your orthopedic specialist may recommend surgery when pain significantly limits daily activities despite other treatments.
Partial knee replacement involves replacing only the damaged portion of your joint, preserving healthy tissue, and allowing for faster recovery. This option works well for patients with limited cartilage damage in one area of the knee.
Total knee replacement becomes necessary when arthritis affects the entire joint. Modern prosthetic devices can last up to 20 years and typically provide immediate pain relief along with restored mobility. Jefferson Orthopedic Clinic offers both traditional and robotic-assisted surgical techniques for optimal precision and outcomes.
Take the Next Step Toward Pain-Free Living
These five pain management strategies can help you maintain an active lifestyle despite knee osteoarthritis. Jefferson Orthopedic Clinic specializes in comprehensive knee osteoarthritis treatment tailored to your individual needs.
Don't let knee pain limit your enjoyment of life in New Orleans. Contact Jefferson Orthopedic Clinic today at 504-349-6804 to schedule your consultation and discover which osteoarthritis management options are right for you.
