Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Arthritis

If you have knee pain, stiffness, swelling, or a grinding sensation years after a knee injury, these could be signs of post-traumatic arthritis. The pain may worsen with activity and improve with rest.

Living with Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Living with post-traumatic arthritis can make it difficult to perform physical activities and may cause chronic pain. The condition can limit your mobility and quality of life, making daily tasks challenging.

How It’s Diagnosed

Dr. Khoo will diagnose post-traumatic arthritis through a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays to assess joint damage and the extent of arthritis.

Treatment Options

Physiotherapy for Knee Conditions: Physiotherapy is crucial for restoring knee strength, flexibility, and stability. It is often recommended for conditions like osteoarthritis, meniscus tears, and ligament injuries. A personalised physiotherapy plan can help alleviate pain and improve function.
NSAIDs for Knee Pain: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce inflammation and manage pain associated with knee conditions.
Corticosteroid Injections for Knee Pain: Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief from inflammation and pain, particularly for conditions like knee osteoarthritis and bursitis. They can be combined with other treatments for better results.
Total Knee Replacement: This procedure replaces the damaged parts of the knee joint with artificial components, significantly reducing pain and improving mobility for patients with severe arthritis or joint damage.
Partial Knee Replacement: Suitable for patients with arthritis confined to a single part of the knee, this surgery replaces only the damaged portion, preserving more of the natural knee structure.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Surgery, such as knee replacement, may be necessary if the arthritis is severe and other treatments no longer provide relief. Dr. Khoo will recommend the best approach based on your overall health and activity level.

What if I Need Surgery?

If surgery is needed, Dr. Khoo will explain the knee replacement procedure in detail. He will provide information on how the surgery can relieve pain and improve knee function. You will receive guidance on pre-surgery preparation, the surgical process, and what to expect during recovery, so you feel comfortable and supported throughout your treatment.

What to Expect at Your Consultation with Dr. Khoo

Dr. Khoo will take the time to understand your symptoms, perform a thorough examination, and discuss the progression of your post-traumatic arthritis. He will provide a personalised treatment plan, including both non-surgical and surgical options, to help you make the best decision for your health and lifestyle.

FAQs

Can post-traumatic arthritis be cured?

Post-traumatic arthritis cannot be cured, but its symptoms can be managed effectively with medication, physiotherapy, and lifestyle modifications. Surgery may be considered for severe cases.

What are the surgical options for post-traumatic arthritis?

The primary surgical option for post-traumatic arthritis is total knee replacement. This procedure can significantly reduce pain and improve joint function when other treatments are not effective.

How long is the recovery after knee replacement for post-traumatic arthritis?

Recovery typically takes 3–6 months, depending on the severity of the arthritis and adherence to the rehabilitation program. Dr. Khoo will provide a personalised recovery plan to help you achieve the best outcome.