Knee Specialist in Singapore

Common Causes Of Knee Conditions

Common causes of knee conditions include:

• Age-Related Wear and Tear
  Osteoarthritis, one of the most common knee conditions, often results from the natural ageing process where the knee’s cartilage gradually deteriorates.
• Sports-Related Injuries
  Activities involving jumping, running, or rapid changes in direction can lead to ACL injuries, meniscus tears, and patellar tendonitis.
• Overuse of the Knee
  Repetitive movements, especially in sports or certain occupations, can cause conditions like patellar tendonitis and bursitis.
• Trauma and Accidents
  Direct impact from falls, accidents, or sports can cause fractures, ligament tears, and other acute knee injuries.
• Improper Training or Equipment
  Using inappropriate sports equipment or poor training techniques can lead to misalignment and imbalance in the knee, causing various conditions.
• Excess Body Weight
  Carrying extra weight increases the stress on knee joints, potentially accelerating the wear and tear that leads to osteoarthritis.
• Genetic Predisposition
  Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to certain knee conditions, such as osteoarthritis or patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Symptoms and Signs

The symptoms and signs of knee issues vary depending on the condition, and may include the following:

• Pain: Varies from a dull ache to sharp, severe pain, often worsening with activities like climbing stairs, kneeling, or walking.
• Swelling and Stiffness: Inflammation in and around the knee joint leads to swelling, often accompanied by stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
• Reduced Mobility: Difficulty in fully straightening or bending the knee, indicating possible ligament damage or arthritis.
• Instability or Weakness: A feeling of the knee giving way or being unable to support weight, often a sign of ligament injuries like ACL tears.
• Popping or Crunching Noises: These sounds can occur with movements and may indicate cartilage damage or osteoarthritis.
• Difficulty or Inability to Bear Weight on the Knee: Severe pain or discomfort when putting weight on the knee, suggesting a possible fracture or severe ligament injury.
• Visible Deformity: Any noticeable change in the shape or alignment of the knee could be a sign of a serious condition that needs immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis

The diagnostic process typically involves the following steps:

Medical History Review

Understanding the patient’s overall health, history of knee problems, and the specific circumstances leading to the current condition.

Physical Examination

A thorough examination of the knee to assess pain, swelling, stability, range of motion, and strength. This may also include functional tests to evaluate the knee’s function during various activities or movements to pinpoint specific conditions.

Imaging Tests

• X-rays: To detect bone fractures and degenerative joint disease.
• MRI Scans: Offering detailed images of both hard and soft tissues, including ligaments, cartilage, and tendons.
• CT Scans: Providing cross-sectional images, useful in diagnosing complex knee issues.

Blood or Joint Fluid Tests

Analysis of blood or fluid from the knee joint can help identify infections or diseases like gout and rheumatoid arthritis.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

For many knee conditions, non-surgical treatment methods are effective in relieving pain and restoring function. Common non-surgical options include:

• Medications
  Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are commonly used. For more severe pain, prescription medications, including opioids, may be considered. Additionally, drugs like glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate might be recommended for osteoarthritis.
• Activity Modification
  Initially, the knee specialist may recommend reducing or altering activities that exacerbate knee pain, such as switching from high-impact to low-impact exercises.
• Corticosteroid Injections
  These can provide relief from inflammation and pain. Their use is generally limited due to their potential side effects.
• Viscosupplementation
  This procedure involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the knee joint to provide cushioning and lubrication. It is especially beneficial for cases of osteoarthritis.
• Supportive Devices
  Knee braces or shoe inserts can help in stabilising the knee, aligning the leg, and distributing weight more evenly across the joint.
• Cast or Splint
  In cases of specific injuries like fractures or ligament tears, immobilising the knee with a cast or splint can facilitate healing by restricting movement.
• Physical Therapy
  This involves structured exercise programs to strengthen the muscles supporting the knee, enhancing stability and flexibility. Physical therapy also includes techniques like heat or cold therapy, ultrasound, and electrical nerve stimulation to reduce pain and swelling.

Surgical Treatment Options

When non-surgical treatments are insufficient, surgery may be necessary to address more severe knee conditions. Common surgical options include:

Arthroscopic Surgery

A minimally invasive procedure using small incisions and a camera (arthroscope) to repair or remove damaged tissue. Commonly used for meniscus tears, ACL repairs, and removal of loose bodies in the knee.

Total Knee Replacement

Involves replacing the damaged knee joint with artificial components. Total knee replacement is typically considered for severe osteoarthritis or other debilitating joint conditions.

Partial Knee Replacement

A less invasive option compared to total knee replacement, where only a part of the knee joint is replaced. This is suitable for patients with damage limited to a specific area of the knee.

ACL Reconstruction

This surgery reconstructs a torn anterior cruciate ligament using a graft taken from another tendon in the patient’s body or from a donor.

Meniscus Repair

Surgical repair of a torn meniscus, either by stitching the torn pieces together or removing the damaged part of the meniscus.

Osteotomy

This includes the reshaping of the bones to relieve pressure on the knee joint. It is often used for younger patients with early-stage osteoarthritis.

Preventing Knee Complications

Preventing complications related to knee conditions involves a combination of proactive measures and lifestyle modifications.

• Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular, low-impact exercises such as swimming, cycling, or walking helps strengthen the muscles around the knee, enhancing joint stability and flexibility.
• Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Excess body weight puts additional strain on knee joints. Weight management through diet and exercise can reduce the risk of knee complications.
• Wearing Supportive Footwear: Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning can help in maintaining proper leg alignment and balance, reducing stress on the knees.
• Avoiding High-Impact Activities: Activities that put excessive strain on the knee, like jumping or heavy lifting, should be moderated, especially for individuals with pre-existing knee conditions.
• Making Ergonomic Adjustments at Work: For those with sedentary jobs, ensuring ergonomic workstations can help reduce knee strain. This includes using chairs with proper support and keeping feet flat on the floor.
• Regular Medical Check-Ups: Routine consultations with a knee specialist can help in early detection and management of potential knee problems.