Arthritis In The Young Patient
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Arthritis In The Young Patient
Arthritis is a common problem seen due to degeneration or loss of cushioning in the knee joint. It is usually seen in the more elderly population. However, it is increasingly being seen in the younger population, even as early as the 30s. There are several factors contributing to it. It is usually seen in patients with deformed or bent legs. At this age, management of arthritis can be difficult especially since the activity demands are higher.
The Treatment Options Include
- Pain medications – A short course to reduce pain and reduce swelling.
- Physiotherapy – To improve muscle control and strength to reduce the load on the knee.
- Lifestyle modifications – Like reducing weight, avoiding activities which increase the load on the knee.
- Braces – unloader braces in patients with a deformed / bent knee.
- Intra articular injections – Like steroid or hyaluronic acid.
- Realignment surgery
Realignment Surgery
Realignment or Osteotomy surgery is a powerful surgery for early arthritis in
the young population. It reduces pain and swelling while improving activity. At
the same time, it can also delay the progression of arthritis and the need for a
knee replacement. It involves cutting the bone and changing its shape it so as
to realign i.e. make the leg straight. By doing this, the overload on the knee
joint at certain parts is reduced providing excellent relief for the patient. It
has shown to be able to delay the need for a knee replacement surgery.
Consult your doctor to formulate a treatment plan for your personalized needs.