Knee Conditions
Knee Arthritis
Knee arthritis is caused by a loss of the cartilage in the knee that allows for the joint to glide smoothly. Arthritis can be the result of “wear and tear” over time (degenerative arthritis), an inflammatory health condition such as rheumatoid arthritis, or as a result of a prior injury (post-traumatic arthritis).
Conservative treatment of knee arthritis includes activity modifications, weight loss, acetaminophen, anti-inflammatory medication, gentle physical therapy, corticosteroid and/or viscosupplementation injections, and bracing.
Surgical treatment of knee arthritis includes knee arthroscopy. Knee arthroscopy allows Dr. Smith to view the inside of the knee and “clean up” the damaged cartilage or structures. After knee arthroscopy patients are usually allowed to bear weight on the knee as tolerated and participate in formal therapy.
Meniscus Injuries (Internal Derangement of the Knee)
Inside of the knee joint, there is a lateral (outside) and medial (inside) meniscus. The meniscus is similar to a gasket and acts as a “shock absorber” between two of the bones that make up the knee joint. A tear in the meniscus can be painful and can cause the knee to “catch, click or pop”. Meniscus injuries can be caused by an injury (acute tear), or from general “wear and tear” (degenerative tear).
Conservative treatment of a meniscus tear includes rest, ice, compression, and anti-inflammatory medication.
Surgical treatment includes knee arthroscopy. Knee arthroscopy allows Dr. Smith to view the inside of the knee and “clean up” the damaged cartilage or structures. After knee arthroscopy patients are usually allowed to bear weight on the knee as tolerated and participate in formal therapy.