Are you or someone you know struggling with degenerative knee osteoarthritis? There’s good news! A recent study has revealed that physiotherapy is a superior treatment option compared to surgical procedures. This is because physiotherapy encourages light exercise or physical activity, which is more effective in treating the condition.
A Groundbreaking Study
The study, published in the British Medical Journal, indicates that knee arthroscopy, a surgical procedure involving drilling holes in the knee, should not be recommended for degenerative knee patients who are capable of undergoing physiotherapy. An expert panel consisting of surgeons, physiotherapists, and other medical professionals unanimously concluded that knee arthroscopy is not the best option for reducing pain and restoring patient conditions in the long term.
Why Choose Physiotherapy Over Surgery?
The study highlights several reasons why physiotherapy is the preferred choice:
1. Encourages Physical Activity: Light exercises recommended by physiotherapists are proven to be highly effective. 2. Cost-Effective: Physiotherapy is significantly cheaper than surgery. 3. Minimizes Discomfort: Unlike surgery, physiotherapy does not add extra pain or discomfort.
Long-Term Benefits of Physiotherapy
The panel analyzed results from 25 studies on the effects of arthroscopy on knee pain and function. They concluded that arthroscopy only provides short-term relief. Patients often reported only slight pain relief within three months post-surgery, and many experienced a return of pain within two years.
In contrast, physiotherapy and other non-surgical treatments showed long-term benefits. Light physical activity and appropriate medical advice significantly reduced knee pain and improved joint function over an extended period.
Expert Opinions
Professor Mark Wilkinson, a spokesperson for Arthritis Research UK, stated that previous studies have shown knee arthroscopy is not recommended for reducing pain symptoms and can even impair joint function in degenerative knee disease patients. He suggests that patients experiencing knee pain or loss of joint function should consider lifestyle changes, exercise, physiotherapy, appropriate pain medication, or even joint replacement with an artificial joint.
Conclusion
In summary, physiotherapy is not only a more effective and less invasive treatment for degenerative knee osteoarthritis, but it also promotes a healthier lifestyle through regular physical activity. If you are suffering from knee pain, consider physiotherapy as your first line of treatment.
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