CONTRIBUTED CONTENT — Osteoarthritis can be distressing and disheartening, particularly when it attacks the knee joint. Older adults may slowly lose mobility and the desire for activities they once enjoyed. 

The good news is that treatment options are available to help people live well with osteoarthritis. Dr. Rhett Frei, a primary care and sports medicine physician at Vista Healthcare, explores various modalities and the benefits they offer patients. 

Knee osteoarthritis is a common type of arthritis that causes pain, stiffness and loss of joint function. It typically affects people over age 50 and develops as the cartilage in the joint breaks down, allowing inflammation to settle in. Patients that suffered an acute knee injury earlier in life, such as a torn ACL, are at higher risk of developing osteoarthritis. 

Although osteoarthritis can occur in any joint, Frei said the knee is often affected because it’s a hinge joint responsible for bearing a large amount of body weight. Patients leading an active lifestyle may notice it more as they participate in activities like running, hiking and playing tennis. 

Vista Healthcare offers a variety of treatment options for knee osteoarthritis. Along with lifestyle management and conservative care, joint injections are an additional modality that may be beneficial for certain patients. 

Cortisone injections

Cortisone injections have been used for decades in the treatment of osteoarthritis. The steroids produce a powerful anti-inflammatory effect in the knee to quickly relieve acute pain. However, relief doesn’t last long and the efficacy may diminish with repeated injections. Frei said cortisone injections are a good option for patients to get their pain under control before pursuing other treatments. 

Hyaluronic acid injections

Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally produced by the body that plays a crucial role in joint lubrication and cartilage health. The amount of hyaluronic acid present in the knee decreases with age and the development of osteoarthritis. Patients can receive injections once or twice a year as needed, and Frei recommends starting treatment before the condition progresses into acute pain. 

Regenerative medicine

Vista Healthcare offers two types of injections that fall into a category of regenerative medicine called orthobiologics. Platelet-rich plasma injections involve a blood draw from the patient; the plasma with the highest concentration of platelets is then used in the affected joint. Bone marrow aspiration involves the removal of a small sample of bone marrow, typically from the pelvis; a concentration of cells with healing properties is injected into the joint.  

“Orthobiologics is a newer field that’s showing a lot of promise in the treatment of osteoarthritis,” Frei said. “The goal is to slow progression.” 

Patients experiencing joint pain often question whether they should continue to exercise, Frei said, but staying active is key in the battle against osteoarthritis. Keeping the muscles surrounding the knee strong helps reduce stress on the joint. However, it’s also important to avoid overtraining that could cause further inflammation. 

“Patients might not know how much exercise is appropriate and what exercises are beneficial,” he added. “That’s a good conversation to have with your physician.” 

The physicians at Vista Healthcare work with chiropractors and physical therapists to develop exercise programs for knee osteoarthritis patients. Frei also emphasized the importance of nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight. 

Vista Healthcare offers an exciting new view on medical care. The group is now accepting patients and scheduling appointments at the Vista Medical Center in St. George. Along with primary care and sports medicine, available specialties include neurology, endocrinology, rheumatology, spine care, pain management, physical therapy and chiropractic care. 

Vista Healthcare recognizes the needs of the growing community and understands that many patients with complex healthcare needs currently face extended wait times to see specialists to help manage their medical needs. The group seeks to provide improved access to specialty care resources for patients across Southern Utah and surrounding areas.

To schedule an appointment with Frei, contact Vista Healthcare Primary Care at 435-215-0240.

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Resources

• Vista Healthcare | Address: 2891 E. Mall Drive, St. George | Telephone: 435-215-0257 | Website.

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