Tips for Preventing Knee Pain

Some people with knee problems have a form of arthritis called osteoarthritis. It is the most common form of arthritis and affects millions worldwide. Osteoarthritis may be caused by joint injury or being overweight. When you have osteoarthritis in the knee, the cartilage gradually wears away, and changes occur in the adjacent bone. The cartilage that cushions of the ends of bones gradually deteriorates.

Osteoarthritis is associated with aging and most typically develops in people aged 50 or older. Although osteoarthritis can damage any joint, it commonly affects joints in your hands, knees, hips, and spine. Knee problems are common because of wear and tear, creating pain, swelling, and stiffness.

Knee Replacements Becoming More Common and Routine 

As we age, many of us may require knee replacements. About one million knee-replacement surgeries are performed each year in the U.S., making it the most common joint-replacement procedure in America. By 2030, demand for knee replacements is expected to grow to 3.5 million—and patients under 60 will likely account for more than half of that growth. In some cases, disability will require long-term health care for at least a period of time. 

Some people avoid knee replacements and suffer from pain; in some cases, they have a greater risk for falls requiring long-term health care.

Knee Pain Doesn't Always Mean Surgery

Surgery is not always necessary, according to Charles Bush-Joseph, MD, a leading sports medicine surgeon at Rush University Hospital.

People who have inflammation issues almost always respond to physical therapy, medication or rehabilitation and almost never require surgery. But those with structural issues are more likely to need some kind of surgery or arthroscopic surgery to repair the damage.

Dr. Charles Bush-Joseph

While knee problems become more common when you get older, knee pain can happen at any age.

Usually if patient's knees are swollen and they are in pain, I have them ice the knees, stretch and take some anti-inflammatory medications for seven to 10 days. If their knees are still visibly and persistently swollen for longer than that, that warrants further evaluation, including imaging tests like an X-ray or MRI.

Dr. Charles Bush-Joseph

Prevent Knee Pain to Start

Rush University Medical Center offers these five tips to prevent knee pain to start with - read here.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says most patients who undergo total knee replacement (TKR) are aged 60 to 80. More than 90% of these individuals experience a dramatic reduction in knee pain and a significant improvement in the ability to perform everyday activities. 

However, questions have been raised about the decline in physical function over the long term despite the absence of implant-related problems.

A study shows many people have good results with their knee replacements even after 20 years. Common concerns are those who avoid the surgery to start with or will not complete the required physical therapy that is ordered following the surgery.

Declining Health Happens with Aging

Doesn't matter if it happens to be knees, hips, or other parts of the body; with aging comes physical issues. This means an advance plan for the physical, emotional, and financial burdens that come from aging and long-term care should be addressed as part of your retirement planning well before you retire. 

Affordable Long-Term Care Insurance will provide the resources for quality care in the settings you and your family desire while protecting your future retirement savings.

Long-term health care will impact you, your family, your savings, and your lifestyle. Long-Term Care Insurance will safeguard your assets and give you the choice of quality care as it eases the burden that care creates on your family. 

Act before you retire for the most affordable options. Most people obtain coverage in their 50s when their overall is usually good, and premiums are low - How Much Does Long-Term Care Insurance Cost? | LTC News.