Knee Osteoarthritis

Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis

Also known as: Knee OA, Degenerative Joint Disease of the Knee, Wear-and-Tear Knee Arthritis The old framing of knee osteoarthritis as simple "wear and tear" has been replaced by something more useful: OA is an active biological process, and the strongest evidence-based treatments are exercise and weight management — not rest, not simply "waiting it out. " As cartilage thins and the underlying bone remodels, pain and stiffness develop — but the severity of symptoms correlates poorly with the severity of imaging findings, which tells us that the muscles and movement patterns around the joint matter as much as the joint itself. Deep, aching knee pain worsening with prolonged activity and easing with rest, morning stiffness lasting under 30 minutes, and crepitus (grinding) are characteristic. Stairs, squatting, and rising from a low chair provoke symptoms.

Age, obesity, prior knee injury, family history, and quadriceps weakness all contribute. We mobilize the patellofemoral, tibiofemoral, and hip joints to preserve range of motion. A progressive strengthening program for the quadriceps (including the VMO), glutes, and calves directly improves joint loading and pain — this is the strongest evidence-based treatment available. We add PEMF and nutritional and weight management counseling.

We coordinate with your physician regarding injections and coordinate orthopedic referral for joint replacement when appropriate. We may recommend: mobilization, diversified adjustments, extremity adjustments, corrective exercise, PEMF, Class IV laser, orthotics Seek immediate care if: The knee suddenly locks, gives way with falls, becomes hot and swollen with fever, or rapidly deforms.