The knee bone’s connected to the thigh bone, the thigh bone’s connected to the hip bone and if you’ve got knee trouble you’re probably acutely aware of it. If you’re having knee pain, you may not want to “shake dem skeleton bones” as it suggests in the James Weldon Johnson song, made famous by the Myers Jubilee Singers, way back in 1928. Thankfully, medical advancements have come a long way since then.
The leading cause of knee injuries are weak muscles so if your knees aren’t giving you any trouble, take preventative steps now … build up your quads and hamstrings, invest in some balance and stability training and stay limber with a daily stretching routine. If you’re experiencing occasional knee discomfort there are herbal remedies that can help relieve some of the pain and inflammation but it is imperative to get medical attention so that a seemingly simple problem doesn’t become a major issue.
One of the latest treatments available for osteoarthritis-related joint issues is Genicular Nerve Radiofrequency Ablation (GNRA). Dr. Kaitlin Carrato, chief resident in interventional radiology at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, says “We know this treatment has clear benefits in reducing pain and improving the ability to do everyday activities … it’s particularly helpful for those over 50 ….”. This minimally invasive treatment is an ultrasound-guided injection procedure providing pain relief and improved mobility. Find out more at scitechdaily.com
Another injectable option is Synvisc, a viscosupplement injection that supplements the fluid in your knee to aid lubrication and cushion the joint. Administered in a doctor’s office, a series of 3 viscosupplement injections, 1 per week, can provide pain relief for up to 6 months. For more information visit synviscone.com
Epidural injections are also common in the treatment of knee pain, decreasing pain and swelling. This procedure is performed at the base of the spine using a small needle guided by a fluoroscopy (x-ray) machine. Epidural injection is often used in conjunction with physical rehabilitation. Not sure if it’s right for you? Check out cpcdoctors.com for comprehensive information
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRPs) injections are, according to Sports Medicine MD, Dr. John Wilson, effective in treating knee pain and stiffness. Studies indicate that the benefits of PRPs in treating osteoarthritic knee joints can last beyond 6 months after treatment. PRPs used in clinical studies have 3x the platelet concentration of normal blood and have been filtered to remove white blood cells. To investigate this treatment further go to arthritis-health.com
Cortisone shots aka steroid injections, are frequently the first option present to the patient complaining of knee pain and or stiffness. These injections are effective in many cases, quickly reducing pain levels by reducing inflammation inside the knee joint. Generally, cortisone shots are safe and side effects are quite rare. Many healthcare providers limit cortisone shots to a maximum of 3 per year, however, the benefits of cortisone can last between 6 weeks to 6 months so … it may be worth a shot. Check out emergeortho.com for full information
I hope this has shed light on some of the options available and has encouraged you to get to your doctor at the first sign of knee discomfort. There are other options out there so spend a few minutes and do some research . . . when it comes to your health, please … don’t take a shot in the dark.
Elite Pain Queens Back Neck Knee PRP & Cortisone Injections by Dr Y. Abrakhimov NYC 62-40 Woodhaven Blvd Suite p17, Queens, NY 11374 (718) 200-8846 https://www.elitepainqueens.com/.
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