In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about bone-on-bone knee pain and the most effective ways to treat it, including an advanced treatment called Prolotherapy.
Key Takeaways
- Bone on bone knee pain is primarily caused by the deterioration of knee cartilage due to osteoarthritis, leading to friction between bones, pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility.
- Non-surgical treatments such as pain management techniques, physical therapy, exercise, and weight loss are effective in reducing discomfort and improving the quality of life for individuals with bone on bone knee pain.
- Emerging treatments like stem cell therapy and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy show promise in promoting cartilage regeneration and healing, offering alternative options to traditional surgical interventions.
Understanding Bone on Bone Knee Pain
When the cushioning cartilage in the knee joint becomes worn or is lost, areas of bone are left uncovered. This condition often goes hand-in-hand with osteoarthritis of the knee—a scenario where this critical layer between joints degrades, permitting close contact and rubbing between bones. Such friction triggers bone discomfort, inflammation, and impairs movement.
Articular cartilage acts as a shock absorber within the knee, ensuring joint surfaces can slide over each other smoothly. When this tissue is diminished, it undermines its ability to buffer shocks, raising internal resistance and leading to degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis. As degradation progresses, pain surges and hinders normal knee function.
In severe arthritis, protective cartilage breaks down completely, leading to raw bone-to-bone contact. This causes excess pressure, bony spurs, increased soreness, and rigidity.
Causes of Bone on Bone Knee Pain
Knee pain that feels like bone grinding against bone can arise from several causes, with osteoarthritis being the primary one. Osteoarthritis involves the progressive breakdown of knee cartilage associated with aging, leading to:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Erosion of knee cartilage
- Direct contact between bones
Other forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and post-traumatic arthritis, can also damage knee cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that attacks joint tissues, while post-traumatic arthritis results from injury or trauma that accelerates cartilage wear.
Symptoms of Bone on Bone Knee Pain
- Persistent, throbbing discomfort
- Episodes of sharp pain
- Pain concentrated in the knee area where bones make contact
- Stiffness, especially after inactivity
- Sensitivity around the joint
- Reduced range of motion
- Abrasion or grinding sensation when moving
These symptoms can disrupt daily life, making walking or climbing stairs difficult.
Diagnosis of Bone on Bone Knee Pain
Diagnosis begins with a review of medical history and a physical exam to assess flexibility and range of motion. Imaging such as X-rays and ultrasound are used to confirm osteoarthritis, showing joint space narrowing and bone spurs. Ultrasound can visualize soft tissue swelling or fluid buildup. In some cases, arthrocentesis (joint fluid analysis) may be performed to rule out other conditions.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Bone on Bone Knee Pain
Non-surgical approaches focus on controlling pain and improving joint function. These include pain management, physical therapy, exercise, and weight loss.
Pain Management Techniques
Pain relief can be achieved with over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (used judiciously). Corticosteroid injections may provide short-term inflammation reduction. Topical analgesics and the RICE protocol (rest, ice, compression, elevation) can also help. However, overuse of medications may lead to further cartilage loss.
Physical Therapy and Exercise
Physical therapy increases flexibility and strengthens muscles around the knee. Regular exercise reduces stiffness, improves strength, and enhances balance. Low-impact activities like swimming and tai chi are especially beneficial, reducing strain while building support for the knee.
Weight Loss and Lifestyle Changes
Losing excess weight reduces stress on the knees and helps preserve cartilage. Even modest weight loss can significantly decrease pain. Avoiding high-impact activities and using cushioned shoe inserts can further protect the knees.
Surgical Options for Bone on Bone Knee Pain
When non-surgical methods are insufficient, surgical treatments may be necessary, including:
- Arthroscopy
- Osteotomy
- Partial knee replacement
- Total knee replacement
Partial Knee Replacement
For arthritis localized to one knee compartment, partial knee replacement (unicompartmental knee arthroplasty) replaces only the damaged area, preserving healthy bone and cartilage. This less invasive procedure offers faster recovery and more natural joint function for suitable candidates.
Total Knee Replacement
Total knee replacement involves replacing the entire joint with metal and plastic components, providing substantial pain relief and improved function. This surgery has a high success rate (90-95%) and is the most common option for advanced bone-on-bone arthritis.
Emerging Treatments for Bone on Bone Knee Pain
Regenerative therapies like stem cell therapy and PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy harness the body’s healing abilities to repair tissue and promote cartilage growth, offering alternatives to surgery.
Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell therapy uses adult stem cells from bone marrow or fat to regenerate knee cartilage. Research at Stanford University and elsewhere has shown promise in regrowing cartilage and reducing pain, potentially revolutionizing osteoarthritis treatment.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
PRP therapy uses growth factors from a patient’s blood to stimulate repair and healing in damaged tissue. Platelet-rich plasma is injected into the knee, reducing pain and inflammation. PRP is safe, as it uses the patient’s own blood, and its effectiveness depends on preparation and patient factors.
Managing Daily Life with Bone on Bone Knee Pain
Managing daily activities is crucial. Avoid high-impact activities, maintain good posture, and wear supportive shoes. Home modifications, like removing loose rugs and using nonslip mats, can reduce fall risk.
Using Walkers and Canes
Walkers and canes provide stability and reduce pressure on the knees. Walkers are best for severe cases or post-surgery, while canes (used in the hand opposite the affected knee) help with mild balance issues.
Choosing the Right Exercises
Low-impact activities like swimming and cycling help maintain mobility without stressing the knees. High-impact activities, such as running, should be avoided to prevent worsening symptoms.
Prolotherapy
In recent years, Prolotherapy has built its reputation within the medical community for its clinically proven ability to treat bone on bone knee pain.
Published research has proven its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory and regenerative benefits.
Prolotherapy involves injecting a natural regenerative solution with tiny needles. This has been shown to stimulate the production of collagen cells, the small cells needed to help with bone on bone knee pain.
As prolotherapy is helping to treat the root cause of bone on bone knee pain, it is deemed to be a permanent fix, preventing the symptoms from returning.
Summary
Bone on bone knee pain is a challenging condition that significantly impacts daily life. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for effective management. From non-surgical treatments and lifestyle changes to surgical options and emerging therapies, there are numerous strategies to reduce pain and improve knee function.
Taking proactive steps, such as weight loss, physical therapy, and using external supports, can make a substantial difference in managing this condition. Embrace these strategies to reclaim your mobility and enjoy a more active, pain-free life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes bone on bone knee pain?
Conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis frequently lead to the degeneration of cartilage, resulting in heightened friction within the knee joint. This can give rise to bone-on-bone knee pain where bones of the knee rub together causing discomfort.
What are the symptoms of bone on bone knee pain?
Symptoms of bone on bone knee pain are characterized by discomfort localized to the area, a reduction in mobility due to stiffness, sensitivity when touched, diminished range of motion, and an audible scraping sound as the joint is moved.
How is bone on bone knee pain diagnosed?
A review of medical history and a physical examination, along with imaging techniques such as X-rays and ultrasound, are utilized to diagnose bone-on-bone knee pain.
These approaches are essential in pinpointing the exact nature of the knee condition and establishing an effective treatment plan. By carefully assessing the patient’s history and conducting a thorough physical examination, healthcare professionals can better understand the underlying issues impacting knee health. For example, recognizing clergyman’s knee symptoms and causes helps distinguish between various forms of knee bursitis and other potential ailments. This targeted approach not only facilitates accurate diagnosis but also enhances the development of a personalized treatment strategy aimed at alleviating pain and promoting mobility.
What are the non-surgical treatments for bone on bone knee pain?
Non-surgical approaches for managing bone on bone knee pain include employing pain management strategies, undergoing physical therapy, engaging in exercise routines, and pursuing weight loss. These methods are designed to reduce the discomfort associated with this condition and enhance the knee’s range of motion.
What are the emerging treatments for bone on bone knee pain?
New therapies for bone-on-bone knee pain, such as stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, utilize the body’s own regenerative capabilities to mend damaged tissues and promote the regeneration of cartilage.
These innovative treatments offer potential in tackling knee pain by fostering natural repair mechanisms instead of resorting to intrusive surgical methods.
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Author Bio
Having performed over 10,000 procedures, Mr Eaton is one of the UK’s leading practitioners in the field of treating bone on bone knee pain, with patients travelling to see him from across the UK, Europe, and the Middle East.
With over 12 years of clinical experience, Oliver is dedicated to helping patients understand their symptoms associated with bone on bone knee pain and providing effective treatment options to alleviate them.
He qualified in Prolozone Therapy and Prolotherapy in America with the American Academy of Ozonotherapy. He continued on to complete further qualifications at the Royal Society of Medicine, Charing Cross Hospital in London, Keele University’s Anatomy & Surgical Training Centre, and the medical department of Heidelberg University in Germany.
Over the years he has had the privilege of treating many elite-level athletes, including both Olympic and Commonwealth medallists.
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References
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- Murray IR, et al. The role of stem cells in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis. Arthritis Rheumatol. 2016;68(9):2306-2316. View Study