Large-Scale Study into Effects of Pain Associated with Knee Arthritis
A recent large-scale study into the effects of pain associated with knee arthritis has revealed the devastating impact it has on patients. A staggering 97% of survey participants claimed the pain they experienced from the condition impacted their daily lives. The effects aren’t purely physical either. Most patients reported missing out on social events, while 28% claimed it had a negative impact on their mental health.
Knee arthritis is said to affect 1 in 5 UK adults over the age of 45 according to leading charity, Versus Arthritis. Here, we look at the results of the latest study and the treatment options available.
The impact of pain associated with knee arthritis
The Standing Up to Knee Pain Survey carried out by Wakefield Research, revealed an alarming trend of younger patients experiencing knee arthritis. Nearly 40% of respondents to the survey were under the age of 50.
The primary concerns about the impact of knee arthritis on daily activities were different for men and women. Most women cited climbing stairs as their biggest pain point, while men were more concerned with their inability to work.
To manage their knee arthritis pain, patients are trying all kinds of treatment options, including steroid shots, over-the-counter pain medication, and opioids. However, despite the negative effects that knee arthritis has on their daily lives, 88% of patients expressed concern over undergoing total knee replacement surgery. This reluctance was primarily due to the pain during recovery, followed by the possibility of the surgery not being successful.
Pain associated with knee arthritis affects every area of a patient’s life. As they look to avoid surgery, many are turning to opioids to relieve their pain. Unfortunately, these medications are proven to have significant and potentially dangerous side effects.
Understanding the risks of opioid treatment
According to the study, almost half of patients with knee arthritis rely on opioids or prescription painkillers to manage their pain. However, the use of these drugs can result in various side effects such as constipation, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and a significant risk of addiction and dependence.
The US is currently struggling with an opioid epidemic, with over 107,000 overdose deaths reported in 2021. In the UK, we have the highest consumption rate or prescription opioids in the world. It is crucial for patients to understand the risks.
New treatments for knee arthritis
A novel approach to treating knee arthritis is MBST which uses Magnetic Resonance Therapy to transfer energy directly into damaged cartilage which is the root cause of osteoarthritis. This stimulates the body’s natural healing mechanisms to support cartilage regeneration and can prevent or delay the need for knee replacement surgery.
Another recent development in the treatment of knee arthritis has been the emergence of robotic assisted knee replacements.
Mr Jonathan Webb carries out robotic knee replacements, using a robotic arm to assist in positioning the knee implant more accurately. This enhanced precision helps to ensure a better fit, improved alignment, and reduces the risk of complications.
One of the main benefits of robotic knee replacement is the ability to customise the procedure for each patient’s unique anatomy. The surgeon can use advanced imaging and computer software to create a 3D model of the patient’s knee, which helps guide the robotic arm during surgery. This allows for a more precise and accurate placement of the knee implant, leading to improved outcomes and reduced recovery time.
Robotic knee replacements also provide better long-term results. The precision and accuracy of the procedure can improve the lifespan of the implant, reducing the need for additional surgeries in the future.
To learn more about the robotic knee replacement procedure and determine if you are an ideal candidate, book a consultation with Mr Webb today.
To find out more about MBST treatment, visit MBST London.
