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What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis and the most common joint condition worldwide. In the U.S. alone, over 14 million people suffer from pain associated with OA in one or both knees.

OA is a chronic disease which causes the cushioning tissue between the bone joints (cartilage) to wear away. In addition, the thick fluid that helps lubricate and nourish the knee joint, known as synovial fluid, becomes thinner and less effective. When the deterioration of cartilage becomes severe the bones grind together leading to friction in the joint, which causes pain and stiffness.

Early diagnosis and treatment help manage knee osteoarthritis symptoms.

Causes of Knee Osteoarthritis

Many things can lead to knee osteoarthritis:

  • A previous knee injury
  • Repetitive strain on the knee
  • Fractures, ligament tears, and a meniscal injury which can affect alignment and increase wear and tear of the knee joint
  • Genetics make some people more likely to develop knee osteoarthritis
  • Obesity
  • Problems with the bone layer underneath cartilage (subchondral bone)

Diagnosis of Knee Osteoarthritis

Diagnosis of Osteoarthritis in the knee is a non-invasive procedure. Reflex may use your medical history, a physical examination, x-rays, and ultrasound to diagnose your knee osteoarthritis. Rarely, more detailed imaging is needed so we may order an MRI.

Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis typically develops gradually over a period of years. The primary symptoms associated with knee osteoarthritis include:

  • Knee aches and pain that worsens when you are active and improves when you rest
  • Stiffness, especially in the morning and when standing up
  • Localized swelling around the knee
  • Limited range of motion in the knee
  • Cracking and popping when moving the knee

As knee osteoarthritis progresses, symptoms generally become more severe. Pain can become continuous rather than only when bearing weight.

Treating Knee Osteoarthritis

When you have knee osteoarthritis it can take over your life, removing you from activities you love. Getting diagnosed while knee osteoarthritis is still in the early stages increases your treatment options and can improve outcomes.

Reflex offers a non-surgical treatment for arthritic knee pain that replaces the fluid in the joint, protecting your remaining cartilage. Our physicians inject Hyaluronan into your knee using Ultrasound, assuring precise administration of the Hyaluronan. These clinically proven injections can help you avoid knee replacement and get long-term relief from knee pain.

Call us today to schedule an initial evaluation at (503) 719-6783.

Portland, Oregon

4.90476