How Long Can You Go With Bone-on-Bone Knee Pain?
Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, causing chronic pain and inflammation in various joints throughout the body. One of the most affected areas is the knees, where the wearing down of cartilage can lead to a condition known as “bone on bone” knee pain.
But what exactly does this mean, and how long can you go with bone-on-bone knee pain before seeking treatment? Let’s delve deeper into the causes, symptoms, impact on daily life, and treatment options for managing this debilitating condition.
Understanding Bone-on-Bone Knee Pain: Causes and Symptoms
Before discussing the severity and impact of bone-on-bone knee pain, it’s important to understand its underlying causes and symptoms. Arthritis is the main culprit behind this condition, with osteoarthritis being the most common form affecting the knee joints.
Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage in the knee joint wears down over time, causing the bones to rub against each other. This friction results in pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility.
Symptoms of bone-on-bone knee pain include dull, aching discomfort that worsens with activity, stiffness after rest periods, swelling, and a grating or popping sensation when moving the knee.
Bone-on-bone knee pain can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Constant discomfort and limited range of motion can lead to decreased physical activity, weight gain, and even depression in some cases. Simple tasks like walking up stairs or getting out of a chair can become challenging and painful for those suffering from this condition.
The progression of bone-on-bone knee pain can eventually result in bone spurs, cysts, and deformities in the knee joint. These structural changes can further exacerbate the pain and immobility experienced by individuals, making it crucial to seek timely medical intervention and appropriate treatment options.
The Impact of Bone on Bone Knee Pain on Daily Life
Living with bone-on-bone knee pain can really make daily life challenging. It often makes simple tasks like walking, climbing stairs, or even standing up painful. The constant pain and restricted mobility can lead to decreased physical activity, resulting in a sedentary lifestyle and further health complications.
Maintaining an active lifestyle is invaluable for overall well-being, and the limitations imposed by bone-on-bone knee pain can lead to a decline in physical and mental health. Depression, weight gain, and weakened muscles are common consequences of reduced activity levels.
Individuals experiencing bone-on-bone knee pain may find it challenging to engage in social activities or hobbies they once enjoyed. The pain and discomfort can limit their ability to participate in gatherings, sports, or recreational pursuits, leading to feelings of isolation and frustration. This social withdrawal can profoundly impact one’s quality of life and relationships.
Moreover, the financial burden of managing bone-on-bone knee pain should not be overlooked. Costs associated with medical treatments, physical therapy, assistive devices, and potential surgeries can add up quickly. For individuals without adequate health insurance coverage, the expenses related to managing chronic knee pain can be overwhelming, further exacerbating stress and anxiety.
Treatment Options: Managing Bone on Bone Knee Pain
Dealing with bone-on-bone knee pain can be an unsettling and distressing experience. While surgical intervention, such as knee replacement, may be necessary for severe cases, there are several non-surgical treatment options available that can help manage the condition and provide relief from the associated pain.
One non-surgical treatment option that has shown promising results is viscosupplementation. This procedure involves injecting a gel-like substance into the knee joint to lubricate and cushion the bones.
By doing so, viscosupplementation can reduce pain and improve mobility for some individuals. It’s important to note that the effectiveness of this treatment may vary from person to person, but we’ve helped more than 50,000 people find pain relief through this therapy at our medical practices.
Another minimally invasive procedure that has gained attention in recent years is genicular artery embolization (GAE). This procedure involves blocking the blood supply to the knee joint, which in turn reduces inflammation and pain caused by bone-on-bone knee pain. GAE has shown promising results in providing relief for individuals who are unsuitable for surgery or prefer a non-surgical approach.
In addition to these procedures, platelet-rich plasma therapy (PRP) has emerged as a potential treatment option. PRP involves injecting concentrated platelets derived from your own blood into the knee joint.
These platelets stimulate the body’s natural healing process, promoting tissue regeneration and reducing pain and inflammation. While more research is needed to understand the effectiveness of PRP for bone-on-bone knee pain fully, it has shown promise in providing relief for some individuals.
For individuals who prefer noninvasive options, an unloader knee brace can be a valuable tool in managing bone-on-bone knee pain. This specialized brace is designed to shift the weight away from the affected part of the knee, providing support and reducing pain during activities.
Some individuals find relief from bone-on-bone knee pain by taking certain supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. These supplements are believed to help improve joint function and reduce discomfort.
It’s important to remember that each person’s experience with bone-on-bone knee pain is unique, and what works for one individual may not work for another. Therefore, we always recommend that you counsel with a healthcare professional to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals.
Signs of Arthritis in the Knees
In addition to understanding bone-on-bone knee pain, it’s important to know the early signs of arthritis in the knees to seek timely treatment. These signs include:
- Joint stiffness
- Pain, tenderness, or swelling in the knee
- Reduced range of motion and difficulty moving the knee
- A clicking or cracking sound during movement
- Feeling warmth or redness around the knee
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.
If you’re struggling with bone-on-bone knee pain and seeking a life free from discomfort, Arthritis Knee Pain Centers is here to help. With over 50,000+ patients who have experienced relief from arthritis knee pain, our advanced knee pain relief treatment offers a non-surgical solution to enhance your mobility, reduce pain, delay the need for surgery, and decrease your reliance on pain medications.
Our expert physicians utilize FDA-approved viscosupplementation gel injections, guided by advanced digital imaging, to provide effective treatment. Don’t let knee pain control your life any longer. Schedule Your No Charge Screening today and take the first step towards regaining an active and fulfilling lifestyle with the Arthritis Knee Pain Centers.