Don't let arthritis pain bring you to your knees

The knee joint pain that people with arthritis have, is debilitating and can become chronic after some time.

Here to offer expert advice about knee arthritis pain, including diagnosis and relief, alongside the effectiveness of regenerative medicine, is leading London pain management and anaesthetist, Dr Zbigniew Kirkor.      

What does pain associated with knee arthritis feel like?

In the majority of cases, arthritis develops gradually over time. So does pain. Initially it might be just a bit of niggling pain after exercise and so on. Later the pain will be more intense, associated with occasional or permanent swelling of the joint. Finally, the pain will become permanent even at rest.

How is knee arthritis diagnosed?

Diagnosis of knee arthritis is based on the history, clinical examination and imaging. The examination will reveal painful to palpation areas of the joint with limited and painful movement of the joint. The imaging might show cartilage loss, fluid in the joint and damage to other structures such as the meniscus.

Is there anything that can relieve pain from knee arthritis?

The most important thing is prevention. Arthritis can be prevented, or at least slowed down, by physical activity, weight control, diet and a healthy lifestyle in general.

Is exercise good or bad for knee pain?

Exercise is good as it prevents the joint from stiffness and helps to maintain mobility and function of the joint.

How can I stop knee arthritis pain getting worse?

All the above factors can help with pain. It has to be pointed out that so called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers are to be avoided for many reasons: they actually cause further damage to the joint cartilage and they carry several serious health risks when taken for more than a few days.

How can a pain management specialist help with knee arthritis pain?

Regenerative medicine offers the very attractive option of not only long-lasting pain relief, but also regenerating cartilage and dramatically improving function and comfort. Both platelet-rich plasma and bone marrow aspirate are used. The evidence is abundant: there are almost 30 clinical trials showing the effectiveness of the platelet-rich plasma in treating knee arthritis.

If you have arthritic knee pain, Dr Zbigniew Kirkor can assist. Book a consultation with this London anaesthesia and pain medicine specialist via his Top Doctors profile.