Treatment
TREATMENT / KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS
Shockwave Therapy for Knee Pain
Recent evidence supports the use of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) as a promising non-invasive treatment for knee Osteoarthritis (OA). A recent systematic review and meta-analysis has shown that shockwave therapy is both effective and safe for reducing pain and improving function in individuals with knee OA.
The meta-analysis pooled data from multiple clinical trials and concluded that ESWT significantly reduces pain and enhances physical function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. In fact, patients who underwent shockwave therapy experienced notable improvements in pain scores, with many reporting lasting relief for weeks or months after treatment. Additionally, ESWT was shown to improve the ability to perform daily tasks, such as walking, climbing stairs, and standing for extended periods—activities often hindered by knee OA.
Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a painful, degenerative joint condition that can severely limit daily activities and quality of life. As OA progresses, especially in more advanced stages like, it can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, and a reduction in functional ability.
Traditional treatments may not always offer long-term relief, but recent advancements in non-invasive therapies, such as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), have shown promising results for managing pain and improving mobility in patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis.
If you’re struggling with knee osteoarthritis and seeking a non-invasive, effective solution to regain function and reduce pain, shockwave therapy might be the answer.
Knee Osteoarthritis Symptoms
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) can present with a range of symptoms that worsen over time. Common symptoms of knee OA include:
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Pain – This is the most common symptom. Pain may be mild at first, but it can become more intense and persistent as the condition progresses. It may worsen with activity (e.g., walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods) and improve with rest.
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Stiffness – You may experience stiffness in the knee joint, particularly after sitting or lying down for a while. This can make it harder to move the knee freely.
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Swelling – Swelling in the knee joint is common, especially after activity. The knee may feel puffy or swollen due to inflammation of the tissues around the joint.
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Decreased Range of Motion – As the cartilage in the knee deteriorates, the joint may lose its full range of motion, making it difficult to fully bend or straighten the leg.
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Cracking or Popping Sounds – A sensation of "grinding" or hearing popping or cracking sounds when moving the knee (called crepitus) may occur as the cartilage wears down and the bones rub together.
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Weakness – The muscles around the knee may weaken as the joint becomes more unstable, which can further impair movement and make the knee more prone to injury.
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Instability – The knee may feel "wobbly" or unstable, especially when walking or standing, as the joint becomes less able to support weight due to cartilage loss
