Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment in Central Louisiana

What Is Knee Osteoarthritis?

Knee osteoarthritis is a natural, degenerative joint condition that develops gradually as the knee joint wears down over time. As people age, the cartilage that cushions the knee joint can deteriorate and fray. When this protective cartilage thins, the bones of the knee may begin to rub against one another, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. 

This bone-on-bone contact can make everyday activities—such as walking, standing, or climbing stairs—painful and difficult, which is why knee osteoarthritis is classified as a form of arthritis. 

Risk Factors for Knee Osteoarthritis

While aging is the primary cause of knee osteoarthritis, several other factors can contribute to its development, including: 

• Obesity, which places added stress on the knee joints 
• Prior injury to the knee, such as ligament or cartilage damage 
• Family history of osteoarthritis 

Common Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis 

Individuals with knee osteoarthritis often experience pain as the knee joint moves, especially when the bones rub together. Pain and stiffness are commonly worse in the morning or after long periods of inactivity. 

Other symptoms may include: 

• Swelling around the knee joint 
• Clicking, popping, or cracking sounds when bending the knee 
• Decreased range of motion and mobility 

Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment Options 

Although knee osteoarthritis cannot be cured, many treatment options are available to help relieve symptoms and improve function. Treatment plans may include both non-surgical and surgical approaches. 

Non-surgical knee osteoarthritis treatments may include: 

• Lifestyle changes: Reducing high-impact activities and maintaining a healthy weight can help decrease stress on the knee joint. 
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications may reduce pain and swelling. Prescription medications, including corticosteroids, may be recommended if OTC options are ineffective. 
• Injections: (steroid, Ziretta, PRP), Iovera, Curonix 
• Physical therapy: Guided exercises can improve knee mobility, strengthen surrounding muscles, and help preserve remaining cartilage. 

If non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, surgery may be considered for patients with severe knee pain. A patient’s age, activity level, and overall health help determine the most appropriate surgical option. 

Surgical treatments for knee osteoarthritis may include: 

• Arthroscopy 
• Osteotomy 
• Joint fusion 
• Knee joint replacement 

Schedule an Appointment 

If knee pain is limiting your mobility or quality of life, the orthopaedic specialists at Mid State Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Center are here to help. With six convenient locations across Central Louisiana—including Alexandria, Jena, Natchitoches, Pineville, Shreveport, and Ville Platte—expert care is always close to home. Call (318) 473-9556 or book an appointment online to explore personalized knee osteoarthritis treatment options.