Understanding Medial Compartment Osteoarthritis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Support Options
Medial Compartment Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that affects the inner (medial) part of the knee joint. It is considered to be one of the more common forms of osteoarthritis, due to the natural distribution of weight and movement across the joint.
This condition typically develops due to natural wear and tear over time, but it can also result from a previous knee injury (i.e., ACL or meniscus). Old age, gender, obesity, strenuous occupations, genetics, and abnormal joint alignment also contribute to or worsen symptoms of medial compartment osteoarthritis.
Symptoms:
- Pain along inner side of knee, especially during physical activity
- Swelling and tenderness around the knee joint
- Knee stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity
- Locking of the knee joint
- Loss of flexibility, reduced range of motion
- Joint weakness or a sensation of the knee “giving out”
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sensations during movement
- An increase in discomfort during weight-bearing activities (i.e., walking or climbing stairs)
Diagnosis:
To be diagnosed with Medial Compartmental Osteoarthritis, a physician will assess the signs and symptoms that indicate osteoarthritis within the knee joint. They may then order an X-ray or MRI to evaluate cartilage wear, joint space narrowing, or the presence of bone spurs in the medial compartment. Diagnosis allows for a case-specific treatment plan based on the severity of the diagnosis and the patient’s lifestyle.
Managing Symptoms:
Depending on the severity and extent of the damage, treatment will depend on how advanced the medial compartmental osteoarthritis is. Symptoms can be managed, but the overall underlying process is irreversible. A combination of treatment strategies/approaches can be used to manage symptoms:
- Over the counter medications: Help manage mild symptoms effectively with Advil (Ibuprofen) which reduces swelling and inflammation, and Tylenol (Acetaminophen) for pain.
- Heat and/or ice therapy: Alternating between heat and cold can help reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness
- Physical therapy: Recommended for strengthening the muscles and ligaments around the joint to prevent further pain or worsening symptoms.
- Low-impact activities: It is important to prevent progressing symptoms by avoiding high-impact exercises/movements that cause discomfort to the knee like running or jumping. Low-impact activities like swimming or biking are optimal.
- Injection therapies: Corticosteroid and hyaluronic acid (HA) injections may help reduce pain and improve movement along with
- Knee bracing: offloading braces designed specifically for medial compartment osteoarthritis can reduce joint stress and improve function. Bracing options are available and offered at our Arthritis and Injury Care Center clinics.
In severe cases, medial compartment osteoarthritis requires partial or total knee replacement surgery may be considered.
Bracing/Treatment Options at our Clinics:
At Arthritis and Injury Care Center we offer customized treatment plans including a range of knee braces and injection options that can help with symptoms of medial compartmental osteoarthritis
Injections:
- Corticosteroid injections are commonly used to help alleviate symptoms of osteoarthritis. The steroid mimics the effects of cortisol, which is a naturally produced hormone in our bodies, released by our adrenal glands above our kidneys. This injection is injected into the knee joint and other joints around the body affected by pain and inflammation such as the hip, ankle, wrist, elbow, shoulder, or spine. The benefit of the steroid lasts around 1-4 weeks, although it is recommended that this injection is only used a few times a year due to the possibility of joint destruction if overused.
- Hyaluronic Acid (HA) injections are another type of injection used to help with arthritis pain in many different joints across the body. Hyaluronic acid is a complex sugar molecule that attracts and retains moisture that is naturally produced in the body. It is important for the healing and regeneration of scar tissue. HA acts as a shock absorber and lubricant in joints, allowing for smooth movement. It is injected directly into the knee joint that is affected by arthritis. It typically takes more than 1 injection to notice any benefits. It takes longer to feel relief with HA injections compared to corticosteroid injections, but results tend to last longer.
Bracing:
One of our knee braces that can benefit medial compartmental osteoarthritis is called the Breg’s Custom DUO Dynamic Knee Brace. The DUO Dynamic Knee Brace is the only dual-upright dynamic osteoarthritis brace available on the market. This brace is unique because it activates only when you need it, allowing for support during regular everyday activities. It creates a load across the joint when the knee is extended and reduces the load as the knee flexes, as well as reducing force when sitting down, making it optimal for patients who require to wear a brace regularly. Although, osteoarthritis is treated based on the patient’s specific needs on a case-by-case basis. Depending on the severity, other options may be recommended. You can learn more about Breg’s Custom DUO Dynamic Knee Brace by contacting our team for more details.
If you think you may have medial compartmental osteoarthritis or are suffering from another injury, contact our Sports Medicine Physicians or Bracing Specialists at 1-902-407-8927 to book your consultation. You can also fill out our website contact form!
