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Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "

Case study ( 7155 views as of April 18, 2024 )

Simon is a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player who visits his physician complaining of medial right knee pain. The knee feels stiff in the mornings, and is sore after running, but not so much with hockey. He had a previous ACL tear and reconstruction 20 years ago in college. He has some swelling after activity, but no locking or giving way. He has an old custom-made knee brace, but hasn’t worn it in years.

On exam, his knee is slightly swollen, with tenderness over the medial joint line. He has some limitation in flexion and extension, and some atrophy of his quads and hamstrings. His ACL graft feels stable.

Simon could benefit from seeing a physiotherapist to work on his strength, and to reduce his pain. He might benefit from a new custom knee brace to include offloading of his medial side. He might also benefit from a viscosupplement or platelet rich plasma injection, to reduce pain and improve function.

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Conversation based on: Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "

Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "

  • Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc.,
    Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc., Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC 31 December 2023
    Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, is indeed the most common reason for needing a hip replacement. Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage in the hip joint to wear away, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Other conditions that may necessitate hip replacement include rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis (loss of blood supply to the hip joint), hip fractures, and certain hip injuries. During a hip replacement surgery, the damaged parts of the hip joint are removed and replaced with an artificial joint, which typically consists of a metal socket and a ceramic or metal ball. This artificial joint allows for improved pain relief, enhanced mobility, and increased functionality of the hip joint. It's important to note that the decision to undergo hip replacement surgery should be made in consultation with a qualified orthopedic surgeon. They will evaluate your specific condition, consider your symptoms, medical history, and overall health to determine if hip replacement is the appropriate treatment option for you.
    Reply to: Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "
  • Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc.,
    Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc., Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC 31 December 2023
    Osteoarthritis is the most common reason for knee replacement surgery. It is a degenerative joint disease that causes the breakdown of the cartilage in the knee joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion. When conservative measures such as medication, physical therapy, and assistive devices no longer provide adequate relief, knee replacement may be recommended. In addition to osteoarthritis, knee replacement can also be performed for other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, which are autoimmune diseases that cause inflammation and damage to the joints. These conditions can result in significant pain and disability, and knee replacement may be considered as a treatment option when conservative methods fail to provide relief. During knee replacement surgery, the damaged surfaces of the knee joint, including the cartilage and bone, are removed and replaced with artificial components made of metal alloys, high-grade plastics, and polymers. These components mimic the function of a healthy knee joint, allowing for smoother movement and reduced pain. It's important to note that knee replacement surgery is typically considered as a last resort when all other conservative treatments have been exhausted. The decision to undergo knee replacement is based on several factors, including the severity of symptoms, the impact on daily activities, and the individual's overall health. It is best to consult with a qualified orthopedic surgeon to determine if knee replacement is the right option for you.
    Reply to: Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "
  • Dr. John Wade MD, FRCPC
    Dr. John Wade MD, FRCPC Rheumatologist, Vancouver, BC 24 June 2023 Artus Health Centre
    Vitamin D is indeed an essential vitamin with important functions in the body. It is a fat-soluble vitamin that can be obtained through diet or synthesized in the skin when exposed to sunlight. Its primary role is to support bone health, dental health, and muscle function. One of the well-known effects of vitamin D deficiency is a condition called osteomalacia, which leads to weak bones and muscles, particularly in children. This highlights the crucial role of vitamin D in maintaining healthy bones and muscles. Research has also focused on the importance of vitamin D in adults, especially older individuals. Studies, such as the NHANES III study conducted by the U.S. Government, have observed a correlation between low vitamin D levels and slower walking speed in individuals over 65. On the other hand, higher vitamin D levels were associated with faster walking speed. This indicates the importance of vitamin D in maintaining muscle function and mobility in older adults. Another study conducted in France showed that older men and women (over 80 years old) who received calcium and vitamin D supplementation had half the incidence of hip fractures compared to those who received a placebo. This study, along with subsequent research, has highlighted the role of vitamin D in reducing the risk of falls and fractures. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption from the gastrointestinal tract, preventing its loss in the kidneys, and incorporating it into the bone matrix, thus strengthening bones. By ensuring adequate levels of vitamin D, the bone mineral density improves, reducing the risk of fractures. Given the various functions of vitamin D and its impact on bone health, it is recommended that individuals who are not able to obtain sufficient vitamin D naturally through sunlight or diet consider supplementation. Vitamin D supplementation can help improve muscle strength, reduce the risk of falls, and enhance bone health, ultimately promoting overall well-being.
    Reply to: Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "
  • Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc.,
    Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc., Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC 16 May 2022
    Osteoarthritis is basically the breakdown and wearing out of the cartilage between the joints. Over the counter anti-inflammatories are the one treatment option for the pain of osteoarthritis.Physiotherapy on the knee and leg muscles can improve the symptoms of osteoarthritis.
    Reply to: Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "
    • Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc.,
      Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc., Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC 16 May 2022
      Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that can affect any joint in the body. Osteoarthritis in the finger joints and hands most commonly effect women between the ages of 45-65. People who suffer from Osteoarthritis of the hands can lose grip strength in their hands.
  • Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc.,
    Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc., Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC 13 April 2022
    10% of patients are not satisfied at all with the outcome of their knee replacement surgery.
    Reply to: Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "
    • Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc.,
      Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc., Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC 16 May 2022
      As a patients osteoarthritis progresses the use of NSAID's (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are often used. Osteoarthritis is not most common in young people. The maximum dose of acetaminophen (ASA) that should be taken per day is 4000 mg/4g.
    • Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc.,
      Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc., Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC 16 May 2022
      The most common treatment of osteoarthritis is acetaminophen (ASA).
    • Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc.,
      Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc., Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC 22 April 2022
      An X-ray is the key diagnostic tool when determining whether a patient is eligible for hip replacement surgery.
    • Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc.,
      Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc., Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC 22 April 2022
      A patient may need to see an orthopaedic surgeon if their hip pain is worsening at rest, the pain presents at night and interferes significantly in normal daily activities.
  • K. Michael
    K. Michael 10 March 2016
    A colleague of mine was recently diagnosed with tendinitis of the knee. He doesn't play sports and his doctor theorizes that his injury is due to wearing shoes that are lacking in support. I don't think this is something that is talked about enough until you are injured
    Reply to: Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "
  • Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc.,
    Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc., Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC 02 October 2015
    I think that sounds cornet , its my understanding, platelet-rich plasma injections promote anti-inflammatory action at the injection site. My understandings is that they might require multiple injections over period of time. I could be wrong thought and it would be best to talk to the doctor.
    Reply to: Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "
    • Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc.,
      Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc., Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC 22 April 2022
      An MRI is the best tool to diagnose the severity of osteoarthritis in the hip joint.
    • Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc.,
      Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc., Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC 13 April 2022
      After surgery patients can resume normal activities, such as golf, swimming and walking almost immediately.
    • Michelle Kaarto, BScK, CSEP CEP
      Michelle Kaarto, BScK, CSEP CEP 15 November 2015
      PRP does not seem to be widely popular, however there is lots of literature out there to speak to its benefits, and I think we will continue seeing this type of therapy used in more cases. There are some articles that suggest that PRP could be useful in rheumatoid arthritis, and that would definitely be something to address with your family doctor or rheumatologist, in order to understand if you would be a candidate for this treatment.
    • K. Michael
      K. Michael 15 November 2015
      Would this treatment work for conditions like Rheumatoid Arthritis as well ?
    • Michelle Kaarto, BScK, CSEP CEP
      Michelle Kaarto, BScK, CSEP CEP 04 November 2015
      @K.Michael, my understanding is that PRP injections were developed to build upon the pain management effect of cortisone injections, and PRP injections have the added benefit of helping the healing process of damaged tissue. I would assume this means a treatment plan would include either cortisone or PRP injections, depending on the extent and type of injury being treated. A good question for a sports medicine physician...
    • K. Michael
      K. Michael 04 November 2015
      Would this be done in connection with cortisone shots ?
  • Michelle Kaarto, BScK, CSEP CEP
    Michelle Kaarto, BScK, CSEP CEP 29 September 2015
    In order to prevent further injury to his knee, this hockey player should work on increasing his overall activity level in order to properly strengthen the surrounding musculature of his knee. This is a common pattern with 'weekend warriors' and adult hockey players are often just playing hockey once a week while they continue to work their office jobs. It's noted this man has weak quads and hamstrings. Finding a qualified personal trainer who understands the nature of his injury, he could start working on an appropriate strengthening program.
    Reply to: Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "
  • K. Michael
    K. Michael 15 September 2015
    How stable is an ACL reconstruction ? I know that I've heard that knee replacements have a 10-15 year life span. Do most people have to have their ACL's fixed again after a period of time ?
    Reply to: Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "
  • K. Michael
    K. Michael 22 June 2015
    It doesn't indicate what he does for a living. It would be interesting to know if he is on his feet a lot at work. He might want to get a stride assessment to make sure his running shoes give him the support he needs while he works to resolve the issue
    Reply to: Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "
    • Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc.,
      Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc., Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC 13 April 2022
      After knee replacement surgery it is completely normal for the outside of the knee to be completely numb for an extended period of time.
    • Michelle Kaarto, BScK, CSEP CEP
      Michelle Kaarto, BScK, CSEP CEP 29 September 2015
      This is a good point. If he requires orthotics due to his instabilities, the proper fitting could help reduce extra strain on his knee that could be contributing to pain.
  • Joy
    Joy 04 May 2015
    A physiotherapist would be a good idea in addition to seeing his family doctor to assert whether his pain and stiffness is due to age or sport. Also, his old knee brace probably isn't effective anymore, so he could benefit from having a new knee brace constructed.
    Reply to: Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "
    • K. Michael
      K. Michael 08 July 2015
      That's a very good point about the knee brace. I would imagine that your knee and leg would change greatly in 20 years and his brace might not be supporting him as he now needs.
  • ShirleyG
    ShirleyG 02 March 2015
    How do you know if the Knee Arthritis is caused mainly due to the injury opposed to aging ? Are there any exercises one can do to help prevent arthritis ?
    Reply to: Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "
    • Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc.,
      Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc., Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC 29 September 2015
      Arthritis is an inflammatory disease that is often generic but can certainly be brought on by excessive repetition to a joint being used incorrectly. Best.to talk to your doctor for the eight diagnosis.
    • Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc.,
      Mr. Jackson Sayers BSc., Kinesiologist, Vancouver, BC 29 September 2015
      I agree if you do squats properly they should not hurt the knees but the problem is in doing a proper squat with all the sitting we do. Sitting puts the pelvis in a.bad position and makes doing a proper squat very.hard. I would see a trainer so that they can watch.your technique.
    • K. Michael
      K. Michael 29 September 2015
      Done properly squats should not cause any knee pain
    • ShirleyG
      ShirleyG 15 August 2015
      Wouldn't squats put more pressure on the knees ?
    • K. Michael
      K. Michael 03 August 2015
      It's my understanding that having strong legs and doing lots of stabilizing exercises like squats can keep the knee stable and help you to heal injuries quicker
  • Bernadette van der Boom-Bebb
    Bernadette van der Boom-Bebb 04 February 2015
    A brace-specialist can help create a specialized knee brace to aid in relieving some of the pressure on his knee.
    Reply to: Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "
  • Michelle Kaarto, BScK, CSEP CEP
    Michelle Kaarto, BScK, CSEP CEP 13 January 2015
    I have seen several clients who have knee or hip arthritis in their 40's. Most often, they had a significant injury to the joint in their younger years, and arthritis has slowly set in. I agree with the suggestion to consider a proper knee brace, and I would encourage physiotherapy to work on the strength and conditioning of his knee. I would consider an injection more of a last resort option, and would consult with a sports medicine physician on the appropriateness of this treatment option.
    Reply to: Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "
    • AllieS
      AllieS 02 October 2015
      From my understanding, platelet-rich plasma injections promote anti-inflammatory action at the injection site and seem to be quite effective. If an individual opts for this treatment, would they require multiple injections over a certain period of time, or would a single injection suffice as treatment?
    • K. Michael
      K. Michael 13 January 2015
      This makes a lot of sense. I've always been told that if you significantly injure a joint in your 20's your likelyhood of developing arthritis doubles - if not triples. Many people hesitate to seek out medical assistance until it is too late.
  • K. Michael
    K. Michael 08 January 2015
    It sounds like the pain and stiffness he is experiencing in his knee could be age related rather than injury
    Reply to: Knee Arthritis and Treatment Options " Simon a 41-year-old male recreational hockey player "

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