Knee Care
Dr. Henry Backe is an integral part of the Orthopaedic Specialty
Group, P. C. team for over 25 years. Dr. Backe’s exceptional surgical skills are complemented by a personable style and dedication to the highest quality patient outcomes and satisfaction. He is a board certified orthopaedic surgeon and is fellowship trained in the area of hand and wrist and joint replacement.
Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee Specialist In The Greater Fairfield & Shelton Areas
Dr. Henry Backe treats knee conditions at his offices in Fairfield and Shelton, Connecticut. Dr. Backe of Orthopaedic Specialty Group P. C. , is a specialty trained orthopaedic surgeon specializing in knee conditions and injuries. As a leader in Orthopaedics, Dr. Backe offers innovative and less-invasive treatment options and state-of-the-art technologies that benefit his patients in many ways.
FAQs on Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis of the knee
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis of the knee is a condition commonly referred to as “wear and tear” arthritis.
Causes
Although the degenerative process may accelerate in persons with a previous knee injury, many cases of osteoarthritis occur when the knee simply wears out. Some experts believe there may be a genetic predisposition in people who develop osteoarthritis of the knee. Osteoarthritis of the knee is the most common cause for total knee replacement surgery.
Symptoms
The primary symptoms of osteoarthritis are pain in the knee, swelling and stiffening of the knee joint. In the early stages of osteoarthritis the pain may be mainly associated with activity. As the cartilage wears away and the bones of the joint rub against each other, pain can become more severe and constant, interfering with regular daily activities and disrupting sleep.
Treatment
In the early stages of osteoarthritis, treatment may involve several techniques. Behavioral and lifestyle changes including losing weight and changing routines to avoid painful situations can be very effective in relieving pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as naproxen sodium may also provide relief from pain. Cox-2 inhibitors are also effective in providing knee arthritis pain relief. Physical therapy may improve muscle strength and joint mobility, reducing the symptoms of osteoarthritis in the knee. Joint fluid therapy may lubricate the knee and reduce the pain and swelling of the joint. Partial or total knee replacement surgery may be necessary as the disease progresses and daily functioning becomes more impaired.
