Expect advice from Dr. Thomas Boerger, MD FRCSI (Tr&Orth) Consultant Hip and Knee Surgeon, expert in partial knee replacement including CORI robotic assisted surgery.
Living with arthritis can be challenging, especially when it affects your knee joints. As a consultant orthopaedic knee surgeon, I want to share ten essential tips to help you manage and care for your arthritic knees effectively. These strategies can enhance your quality of life, reduce pain, and improve mobility.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight
Excess weight places additional stress on your knee joints. By maintaining a healthy weight, you can significantly reduce this burden, alleviating pain and slowing the progression of arthritis. Consider speaking with a nutritionist to develop a balanced diet tailored to your needs.
- Engage in Low-Impact Exercise
Regular physical activity is crucial for joint health. Focus on low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, and walking. These activities help strengthen the muscles around your knees without putting undue stress on the joints. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week.
- Stretch and Strengthen
Incorporate stretching and strengthening exercises into your routine. Stretching helps maintain flexibility, while strength training builds the muscles that support your knees. Consult a physiotherapist to design a programme specifically for your condition.
- Practise Good Posture
Maintaining proper posture can significantly impact your knee health. Pay attention to your body mechanics during daily activities, such as sitting, standing, and walking. Good posture helps distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on your knees.
- Apply Heat and Cold Therapy
Heat therapy can help relax muscles and increase circulation, while cold therapy can reduce inflammation and numb pain. Alternating between heat and cold can provide relief and improve your overall comfort.
- Stay Hydrated
Proper hydration is essential for joint health. Water helps lubricate your joints and maintain their function. Aim to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to keep your body well-hydrated.
- Consider Dietary Supplements
Some supplements, like glucosamine and chondroitin, may support joint health. However, it’s crucial to consult with your general practioner before starting any new supplement regimen.
- Explore Physical Therapy
A physical therapist can assess your condition and develop a tailored treatment plan. This may include specialised exercises, manual therapy, and education on proper body mechanics to help reduce pain and improve function.
- Use Pain Management Strategies
Utilise over-the-counter medications, topical ointments, or prescription medications as needed to manage pain. Discuss with your doctor the best options for your particular situation.
- Seek Professional Help
If your knee pain persists or worsens, it’s essential to consult a specialist. As a dedicated knee surgeon, I offer advanced treatments, including partial knee replacements using the CORI Surgical System, which allows for a highly personalised fit and accelerated recovery, as well as Total Knee Replacements. All surgical procedures include post operative support including initial physiotherapy.
Take the Next Step Towards Pain-Free Living
If you’re struggling with arthritis in your knees, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. I invite you to book a private consultation with me, Dr. Thomas Boerger, to discuss your symptoms and explore potential treatment options. Together, we can work towards restoring your mobility and enhancing your quality of life.
Your journey to pain-free living starts here.
Marbella: Whatsapp +34 617 178 242
Gibraltar: Whatsapp +350 5407 4218
Email: info @ thomasboerger.com
I am Dr. Thomas Boerger, a Consultant Orthopaedic knee surgeon, expert in partial knee replacement including robotic assisted surgery.
Specialist procedures include inside (Medial), outside (lateral) and knee cap (patello-femoral) Partial Knee Replacement, Total Knee Replacement, Total Hip Replacement and Knee Ligament Reconstruction.