Osteoarthritis of the knee is one of the leading causes of disability in the United States. We recommend a range of treatments, including:
- Changes in activity level
- Weight loss
- Pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen
- Physical therapy
- Corticosteroid injections
Another treatment option is a procedure called viscosupplementation. In this procedure, a gel-like fluid called hyaluronic acid is injected into the knee joint. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the synovial fluid surrounding joints. This acts as a lubricant to enable bones to move smoothly over each other and as a shock absorber for joint loads. Hyaluronic acid will facilitate movement and reduce pain.
