Knee pain and inflammation affect countless people from all walks of life. There are many reasons someone may experience knee pain, but there are some common causes that can be treated with minimally invasive options like those offered at Beach Wellness MD.
What is hemarthrosis of the knee?
Hemarthrosis is a condition that causes inflammation and pain because of bleeding into the joint. If left untreated, hemarthrosis can lead to permanent joint damage, as well as damage to the tendons, ligaments, and soft tissues around the joints. This can lead to:
● Loss of mobility and range of motion.
● Loss of strength.
● Pain.
● Degenerative arthritis.
Causes of knee hemarthrosis
● Traumatic injury, such as a sprain, fracture, or ligament injury.
● Surgery damage.
● Hemophilia, or other bleeding disorder.
● Blood-thinning medications.
● Some infections.
● Osteoarthritis.
● Cancer (rarely).
Symptoms of knee hemarthrosis
● Pain, aching, or tenderness.
● Swelling, redness, warmth, or stiffness of the joint.
● Sensations of tingling or bubbling in the joint.
● Unusual or excessive bruising around the joint.
● Limited range of motion.
What is osteoarthritis of the knee?
Nearly 40 percent of people in the U.S. over the age of 60 have some kind of chronic pain caused by osteoarthritis of the knee. With osteoarthritis, cartilage, which is the natural cushioning between joints, becomes worn away, causing the bones within the joints to rub against each other. The knee is an incredibly hard-working joint, which makes this wear and tear very common.
Causes of knee osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis—and the knee is one of the most commonly affected joints by osteoarthritis.
- Age — knee osteoarthritis is more common as you age.
- Excess weight — more weight on the joints causes more wear.
- Genetics — some people are more likely to develop knee osteoarthritis due to genetic mutations.
- Sex — women over 55 are more likely than men to develop it.
- Repeated stress — regular injuries or activity that stresses the joint can lead to a higher risk of knee osteoarthritis.
- Some chronic illnesses — some metabolic disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, and other conditions can make osteoarthritis more likely.
Symptoms of knee osteoarthritis
- Pain with activity, that sometimes gets better with rest.
- Swelling or warmth in the knee.
- Stiffness, especially in the morning.
- Mobility limitations or problems.
- Creaking or cracking sounds in the knee.
How are hemarthrosis and osteoarthritis of the knee diagnosed and treated?
Diagnosis to determine the cause of knee pain usually begins with a discussion with your doctor about family and personal medical history, symptoms, and a thorough exam.
A physician may also use imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs to diagnose knee hemarthrosis or osteoarthritis. Blood tests may also be ordered to rule out other conditions that could be causing knee pain.
Hemarthrosis and Osteoarthritis conservative and surgical treatments
Both hemarthrosis and osteoarthritis may be treated conservatively with rest, ice, and elevation. Over-the-counter pain medications may be used as well in mild cases.
For hemarthrosis, a physician may recommend draining the blood from the joint. Surgical treatments, such as synovectomy or even joint replacement, may also be recommended. People with blood disorders may require additional therapies.
For osteoarthritis, if conservative treatments aren’t effective, your doctor may try corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections, bracing, or physical therapy. Surgical treatments that may be used include arthroscopy, osteotomy, or knee replacement.
Geniculate artery embolization: Innovative, minimally invasive treatment
An innovative and minimally invasive treatment that can be used for both knee hemarthrosis and knee osteoarthritis is geniculate artery embolization. This treatment is done by a qualified interventional radiologist, like Dr. Ali Golshan, a leading vascular expert who specializes in nonsurgical vascular treatments.
This outpatient procedure uses imaging guidance to block capillaries around the knee joint, reducing blood flow to the lining of the knee, and providing immediate, long-term pain relief. This is a great option for some people who are looking for effective treatment, without having to undergo invasive surgery.