What are the treatment options for degenerative changes in both knees?
The treatment methods for degenerative changes of both knee joints include three main approaches: pharmacological therapy, physiotherapy, and surgical treatment. Different intervention measures can be adopted according to the severity of the condition. Scientific exercise and dietary plans can help alleviate symptoms and delay disease progression.
1. Pharmacological Therapy
Pharmacological therapy is an important means to relieve symptoms, especially for early degenerative changes.
Anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and meloxicam can effectively alleviate pain and inflammation. They should be used as prescribed to avoid burdening the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys.
Cartilage repair drugs: Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate can help improve cartilage metabolism and delay joint degeneration. Long-term regular medication principles should be followed.
Local injection drugs: Sodium hyaluronate or glucocorticoid injections can directly act on the joints to improve lubrication and reduce inflammation. However, frequent use of glucocorticoids may cause side effects, so the frequency should be controlled.
2. Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is often used as adjuvant therapy, especially for patients with mild to moderate conditions.
Rehabilitation training: Low-intensity exercises such as non-weight-bearing water walking and yoga stretching can enhance the muscle strength around the joints and stabilize joint structures.
Physiotherapy equipment: Methods such as hot packs, electrotherapy, and ultrasound therapy can promote blood circulation and relieve joint pain.
Brace protection: Wearing knee braces can provide external support to the joints, reducing the load during activity and avoiding further injury.
3. Surgical Treatment
Surgery often becomes an alternative when severe degenerative changes occur or other treatments are ineffective.
Arthroscopic surgery: It involves minimally invasive cleaning of inflammatory substances within the joint or repairing cartilage damage, suitable for patients with mid-stage lesions.
High tibial osteotomy: It is used to correct abnormal joint forces and is suitable for patients with more obvious unilateral deformation of the knee joint.
Total knee arthroplasty: For advanced patients, this is a more effective radical treatment that can completely solve functional disorders.
Routine management is equally important. Reducing the load on the knee joints and regular exercise can effectively delay degenerative changes. It is recommended to avoid prolonged sitting or standing and maintain weight control. In terms of diet, foods rich in collagen and vitamin D, such as fish, nuts, and milk, can be consumed more.
The treatment of degenerative changes of both knee joints requires personalized plans based on symptoms. The gradient treatment strategy from medication to surgery is the mainstream direction. Early detection and adherence to scientific maintenance methods can help improve quality of life and delay disease progression. If symptoms continue to worsen, it is recommended to seek professional medical guidance promptly.
