Managing Chronic Knee Pain in Adelaide
Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of progressive knee pain and physical limitation in adults. At Adelaide Knee Clinic (AKC), we focus on providing a clear path forward for individuals dealing with joint degeneration. Led by Adelaide orthopaedic surgeon Dr Matthew Liptak, our clinic emphasises tailored, realistic care pathways that balance conservative management with advanced surgical options when necessary.
What is Knee Osteoarthritis?
Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition characterised by the gradual wear and tear of the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones. In a healthy knee, this smooth cartilage allows the joint to move seamlessly.
As osteoarthritis progresses, the cartilage thins and becomes rough. Over time, this reduction in cushioning can lead to joint friction, structural changes in the bone, and localised inflammation, resulting in pain and functional limitations.
Who Gets Knee Osteoarthritis?
While knee osteoarthritis is frequently associated with aging, it can affect individuals at various stages of life.
Common risk factors include:
- Age: The risk naturally increases as we get older due to decades of joint use.
- Previous Joint Injuries: Past trauma, such as an ACL tear or meniscus injury, can change joint mechanics and accelerate wear.
- Weight: Carrying excess body weight places additional mechanical stress on weight-bearing joints like the knee.
- Genetics: A family history of joint degeneration or structural alignment issues can increase susceptibility.
- Occupational Stress: Repetitive heavy lifting, kneeling, or high-impact stress can contribute to cartilage degradation over time.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Common Symptoms
The experience of knee osteoarthritis varies significantly from person to person; two individuals with similar joint imaging can have completely different daily physical experiences. Common signs include:
Activity-Related Pain:
Discomfort that typically flares up during or after movement, such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods.
Joint Stiffness:
A feeling of tightness in the knee, particularly first thing in the morning or after prolonged periods of sitting.
Swelling and Tenderness:
Localised swelling caused by mild fluid buildup or inflammation within the joint.
Grating or Clicking:
A physical sensation or sound (crepitus) when bending or straightening the knee.
Reduced Mobility:
Difficulty fully bending or extending the knee, impacting normal daily activities.
How is it Diagnosed?
An accurate assessment is vital for establishing an effective management framework for knee osteoarthritis.
Diagnosis typically involves:
Clinical Examination: A thorough evaluation of your knee's range of motion, stability, and areas of tenderness.
Imaging: Standing X-rays are generally performed to assess the degree of joint space narrowing, bone spurs, or structural changes.
Note: Objective imaging does not always perfectly mirror your daily pain levels, which is why monitoring your subjective functional experience is equally crucial.
How is it Diagnosed?
An accurate assessment is vital for establishing an effective management framework for knee osteoarthritis.
Diagnosis typically involves:
Clinical Examination: A thorough evaluation of your knee's range of motion, stability, and areas of tenderness.
Imaging: Standing X-rays are generally performed to assess the degree of joint space narrowing, bone spurs, or structural changes.
Note: Objective imaging does not always perfectly mirror your daily pain levels, which is why monitoring your subjective functional experience is equally crucial.
Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment Options
Treatment for knee osteoarthritis is highly individualised and depends heavily on the severity of your symptoms and how much the condition affects your daily lifestyle.
What are Your Next Steps?
Understanding exactly where you stand with your knee health is the first step toward effective treatment.
Track Your Symptoms Online
To help gauge the impact of your knee pain on your daily life, take a few minutes to complete our custom symptom tracker. Developed by Dr Matthew Liptak, this tool categorises your pain and function to help guide your upcoming medical consultations.
Request a Clinical Consultation
If your knee pain is progressively worsening or failing to respond to conservative treatments, we encourage you to arrange a formal evaluation.
Please note: A current referral from your General Practitioner (GP) is required for a formal specialist consultation with Dr Matthew Liptak.