Knee pain can stem from various sources, including the spine, hip, or structures in and around the knee itself. Treatment for knee pain doesn’t always require surgery. In fact, non-surgical approaches are typically the first line of treatment, and these may include lifestyle changes, pain medications, physiotherapy, and injections.
The primary symptom of knee arthritis is pain, which may be felt around the entire knee, including behind it. Pain can sometimes radiate down the leg toward the ankle, and patients may also experience discomfort in other areas.
Knee arthritis is the degeneration of the cartilage covering the ends of the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia). This cartilage allows the knee joint to move smoothly. As arthritis progresses, the cartilage wears thin, cracks, and eventually exposes bone, causing severe pain as the bones rub against each other.
In cases of severe arthritis, knee replacement surgery may be necessary. This surgery involves removing the damaged surfaces of the femur and tibia and replacing them with metal components. A hard plastic bearing surface is placed between these metal pieces to facilitate smooth movement of the knee joint.
Resources: What is Arthritis – Information Booklet
During your consultation, the surgeon will ask about your knee pain and how it impacts your quality of life. They will review your medical history and previous surgeries. You should bring a list of your medications. A physical examination and review of your X-rays will follow. If necessary, additional imaging may be ordered.
Depending on your condition, treatment could include pain management, lifestyle changes (such as weight reduction and smoking cessation), and possibly injections. Surgery is only discussed when these non-invasive treatments have been exhausted. If surgery is required, it may involve “keyhole” arthroscopic surgery to address minor damage, or, in cases of severe arthritis, a knee replacement.
Treatment begins with simple measures:
Medications – Over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, and sometimes stronger medications prescribed by a doctor.
Injections – In certain cases, injections may provide temporary relief, but these are usually reserved for specific circumstances.
Weight management – Maintaining a Body Mass Index (BMI) under 35 reduces pressure on weight-bearing joints like the knees and can alleviate pain.
Surgery – In cases where tears in the menisci (the knee’s shock absorbers) cause sharp pain, keyhole surgery may be an option. Alternatives are Partial or Total Knee replacement if arthritis is the major issue.
At Northampton Hip and Knee Clinic, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional care for hip and knee conditions. Here are four reasons to choose us:
Mr. Pierre Nasr has extensive experience in hip and knee treatments, performing hundreds of procedures annually. His expertise ensures high-quality surgical outcomes.
As a specialist in hip and knee surgeries, Mr. Nasr brings a depth of knowledge and skill to every case, offering advanced treatment options tailored to each patient.
We tailor our approach to each patient's unique needs and circumstances, ensuring a treatment plan that best suits your condition and lifestyle.
Our clinic consistently achieves excellent results, with high patient satisfaction rates reflecting our commitment to exceptional care and successful treatments.
Our dedication to outstanding care is evident in the stories of our patients. Explore how our treatments have significantly improved lives, offering relief and restoring mobility for individuals just like you.
Mr Pierre Nasr, MBBS BSc Dip IMC RCS (Ed) FRCS (Tr&Orth), is a Consultant Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgeon with extensive experience in hip and knee replacements and fracture management. His expertise ensures you receive the highest standard of care at Northampton Hip and Knee Clinic.
Remote Consultations for Hip and Knee Pain and Lower Limb Trauma
Experiencing hip or knee pain or a recent lower limb injury? You no longer need to wait for in-person appointments to receive expert advice and care. At Northampton Hip and Knee Clinic, we offer remote consultations that allow you to discuss your condition with our specialist team from the comfort of your own home.
For more information about fracture treatment or to schedule a consultation with Mr Nasr, please contact us:
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