One of the most common reasons for pain in the knee joint is osteoarthritis and it affects more than 20 million Americans today. Osteoarthritis, preferring to attack weight-bearing joints, impacts hyaline articular cartilage in the knee, the tough gristle that caps the ends of long bones. This causes the pain, stiffness and swelling associated with this type of arthritis.

Initially the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee is primarily symptomatic. Physical therapy, weight loss, exercise, assistive devices (such as canes, braces, and walkers), analgesics (pain-relieving medicines), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) which also reduce inflammation and pain, as well as thermal modalities such as heat and ice can all be used. The next line of treatment is usually injections with glucocorticoids (cortisone).

Eventually the benefit of these injections will fail to help and the remaining option to consider is knee replacement surgery. The Carolina Center for Joint Preservation, your local Myrtle Beach knee replacement provider, can assess the severity of your knee condition and offer treatment recommendations and follow through. They will determine if you are a prime candidate for knee replacement and discuss the procedure with you.

For the first three to four weeks after the knee replacement, it is necessary to walk with the aid of crutches or a walker. For the next two to three weeks the use of a cane is recommended. After about 8 weeks, most people can walk unaided. It generally takes from 6 to 12 months for the knee joint to heal completely. This time frame is dependent on the knee exercises and rehabilitation program being followed and on the knee not being damaged by trying to pursue some activities too soon.

If you reside in South Carolina and would like a consultation with a Myrtle Beach knee replacement provider consider seeing us at Carolina Center for Joint Preservation.