Knee osteoarthritis is a common ailment that affects millions of individuals, causing pain, stiffness, and a diminished quality of life. Despite its prevalence, many people struggle to find effective and lasting relief. For some, conventional treatments like physical therapy and oral medications are not sufficient. This is where injections for osteoarthritis of the knee can provide an innovative solution.
Let us explore what knee osteoarthritis is, its causes, and when injections may be a suitable treatment. We will also discuss minimally invasive injections offered by triple board-certified physician Dr. Warren J. Bleiweiss.
What Is Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition where the cartilage within the knee breaks down over time. The cartilage is a critical component of the joint, acting as a cushion between the bones to prevent friction. When it deteriorates, the bones may rub against each other, which can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
This condition can develop in one or both knees and is often progressive, meaning it worsens over time if not managed effectively. While knee osteoarthritis is more common in older adults, it can also affect younger individuals, particularly those with a history of joint injuries or other risk factors.
What Causes Knee Osteoarthritis
The exact cause of knee osteoarthritis often varies from person to person, but some common factors contribute to its development:
- Aging: The likelihood of cartilage wear and tear increases with age due to repetitive use of the joint.
- Obesity: Excess body weight adds pressure to the knee joint, accelerating cartilage damage.
- Previous Injury: Traumatic knee injuries, such as ligament tears, can contribute to osteoarthritis later in life.
- Repetitive Stress: Jobs or activities that involve repetitive motion, heavy lifting, or kneeling place stress on the knee joint.
- Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis may increase the risk of developing the condition.
- Inflammation: Chronic inflammation due to autoimmune or metabolic disorders can damage cartilage.
When to Consider Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis
If traditional treatments like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or weight management do not provide effective relief, it may be time to explore minimally invasive injections for osteoarthritis of the knee. Here are situations in which injections are worth considering:
- Persistent Pain: If you experience persistent or severe knee pain that interferes with daily activities, injections could offer relief.
- Limited Mobility: When knee stiffness and discomfort begin to inhibit your ability to walk, climb stairs, or exercise, injections can help improve joint function.
- Avoiding Surgery: For individuals aiming to delay or avoid knee replacement surgery, injections offer an alternative, minimally invasive approach.
- Ineffectiveness of Oral Medications: If over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers fail to provide long-term relief, injections may be a better option.
Types of Minimally Invasive Injections
Dr. Warren J. Bleiweiss’ practice in Caldwell, New Jersey, offers cutting-edge minimally invasive treatments for knee osteoarthritis. These approaches focus not only on relieving symptoms but also on promoting the body’s natural ability to heal.
1. Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroids are effective in reducing inflammation in the knee joint, alleviating pain, and improving mobility. These injections are particularly beneficial for those experiencing acute flare-ups of osteoarthritis.
2. Hyaluronic Acid (Viscosupplementation)
These injections act as a lubricant for your knee joint. They help restore fluidity, reduce friction, and improve joint movement, offering relief to individuals with moderate osteoarthritis.
3. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
Using concentrated platelets from your own blood to promote healing and tissue regeneration, PRP is a revolutionary treatment for knee osteoarthritis. The growth factors in PRP can stimulate the repair of damaged cartilage and reduce inflammation.
4. Stem Cell Injections for Arthritis
Stem cell injections for arthritis are a form of regenerative medicine that aims to rebuild damaged cartilage and reduce inflammation. These injections utilize your body’s stem cells to promote natural healing and slow down the progression of osteoarthritis.
Why Choose Dr. Warren J. Bleiweiss
Dr. Warren J. Bleiweiss is a triple board-certified physician with extensive experience in regenerative medicine and minimally invasive treatments. At Alternative Disc Therapy, he offers personalized care tailored to your specific needs. Through advanced techniques, including PRP therapy and stem cell injections for arthritis, Dr. Bleiweiss strives to help patients regain mobility and live pain-free lives.
Joint Pain Relief in Caldwell, New Jersey
If you are searching for joint pain treatment or regenerative medicine, Dr. Bleiweiss is your trusted choice. His clinic uses cutting-edge therapies to address knee osteoarthritis and improve your overall quality of life.
Do not allow knee osteoarthritis to hold you back from the activities you love. For expert care and advanced treatments like injections for arthritis, reach out to Dr. Warren J. Bleiweiss and his team at Alternative Disc Therapy. To schedule a consultation, call (973) 403-3334 or use our convenient appointment request form.
Your path to much-needed pain relief and improved mobility starts here.
