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Damage to cartilage on the kneecap will not typically require surgery for a full recovery. Cartilage defects may range from minor tears to severe wearing away of the cartilage beneath the femur and above the tibia. These differences in the severity of degradation will affect the treatment decision, as will the degree of activity that the patient wishes to pursue after treatment.
Some patients, even with quite severe damage, may choose to not undergo surgery. However, damaged cartilage cannot rebuild itself, surgery will be required to produce additional cartilage-like material to supplement cushioning in the joint. |
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If muscle imbalances are contributing to a poorly aligned knee joint, proper conditioning of the thigh muscles will work to re-establish a functional and balanced biomechanical relationship.
Weight loss, if applicable, is recommended. This will help reduce stress on the joint, particularly while walking, climbing stairs or during other daily activities.
Non-steriodal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs) may be administered which reduces irritation and swelling in the joint.
Therapists may recommend changes in activity and specialized bracing to support the knee during movement or while it is under load. This may include a knee support, knee brace or, in more severe cases, a knee immobilizer.
If over-pronation of the feet is a factor, orthotic shoe inserts may be used to correct the patient's stance, reducing strain on the kneecap.
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| Knee: Compression Sleeves
Knee compression sleeves give added support, increasing stability and helping to reduce swelling in an injured knee. Patients that have light sprains may be directed to use a compression sleeve during the early stages of rehabilitation. Other patients that have ongoing knee problems or chronic conditions may be recommended to use a sleeve on a daily basis. These sleeves are less restricting than most other knee supports and can be worn under loose fitting clothing.
Knee compression sleeves can be used to treat:
Light swelling.
Light knee strains.
Chronic inflammation.
Degenerative joint disease.
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NSAIDs
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) are a group of drugs used to control pain. This category of medications includes both prescription and common over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. NSAIDs are effective for many types of pain that can occur because of inflammation of muscles, joints and bones. The drugs work quickly and people often notice some benefit within a few hours of taking the tablet. However, the complete effectiveness of the drug may not be realized for up to four weeks. For each individual, some varieties of NSAIDs are more effective than others. Often, patients will find that one or two varieties are helpful whereas others may not be as effective in controlling symptoms. It is usually necessary to try several brands and continue with the one that is most suitable. NSAIDs can be used to treat:
Pain resulting from inflammation or swelling.
Pain after injury.
Joint pain and arthritis.
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Patients with minor damage can expect to fully recover after a month of physical therapy.
Patients suffering severe damage will require much longer to rehabilitate. In these cases, some degree of pain or discomfort may remain during movements that place pressure on the knee.
Patients that have not achieved full recovery will need to reduce their level of physical intensity to prevent further injury to the cartilage of the knee. In some cases this will mean completely refraining from activities that place particular stress on the knee.
Recovery is more dependent upon the condition of the joint and how the internal structures have repaired, and less on the number of days, weeks or months since the injury occurred.
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Re-injury or aggravation to the cartilage is possible if physical therapy becomes overly strenuous for the condition of the knee.
For patients with severe cartilage defects, physical therapy may not sufficiently recondition the knee joint for vigorous athletic activities.
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