The knee is a hinge joint supported by ligaments and muscles all working together. The knee allows us to walk, bend and jump so we can perform numerous tasks and enjoy an active lifestyle. Because it is a complex joint, the knee is often injured, requiring medical intervention. Joint problems can occur at any age, but with the advancements in medical technology today, it is no longer necessary to endure the pain and tolerate the limitation of activities once associated with having a knee injury.

 

Cartilage Damage
Knee cartilage is the cushion between the ends of the bones that form the knee joint. Damage to articular cartilage is usually associated with aging, but it can also be caused by an injury. Wearing of this cartilage lets the bones rub together, causing pain and stiffness.

Treatment can include medication to reduce inflammation and pain, repair of the damaged cartilage with a specialized treatment for re-generation of tissue, injections into the joint to reduce pain, stiffness, or total/partial knee replacement.

 

MCL (Medical Collateral Ligament Tear)
This type of ligament tear is often seen in football and hockey players who have sustained a hard impact to the outside of the knee. When damaged, the MCL will often produce a popping sensation, pain, and swelling. Although the MCL often heals without surgery, a period of physical therapy can help restore knee function more reliably.

 

Total/Partial Knee Replacement
Fortunately, today the severe pain of bone rubbing on bone can often be relieved by knee joint replacement surgery.

In a knee replacement, either the entire knee joint or part of the knee joint is replaced with specially designed metal pieces. Unlike the bone they replace, these pieces fit and move smoothly together. Whether the knee joint is totally or partially replaced depends on the amount of wear and the physician's evaluation.

While total knee replacement is major surgery, the patient's quality of life can be greatly improved by eliminating the discomfort from a worn joint.