Osteoarthritis Knee Pain Relief in Oregon: Best Treatments & Tips

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is a common joint problem. It happens when the cartilage in the knee wears down. This makes the bones rub together. It causes pain, stiffness, and swelling.

Many people in Portland, Eugene, Salem, Gresham, and Hillsboro have knee osteoarthritis. It affects both older adults and younger people. Age, extra weight, past injuries, and family history can increase the risk.

The first signs of knee osteoarthritis are mild. You may feel pain after walking or climbing stairs. Your knee may feel stiff in the morning. Some people hear a cracking or grinding sound when moving.

If left untreated, the pain can get worse. Daily tasks like standing, walking, or bending may become hard. But the good news is that many treatments can help.

People in Oregon can try physical therapy, exercise, weight management, knee braces, and medications. These methods can reduce pain and swelling. If needed, injections or surgery can help too.

At HWY Physical Therapy at Center 50+ in Salem, Dr. Raj helps people with knee osteoarthritis. He creates personalized treatment plans for pain relief. You can call 971-202-1979 to learn more.

Taking early steps can help protect your knees. If you have knee pain, do not wait. Start treatment today and enjoy an active life.

What is Osteoarthritis of the Knee?

Knee Osteoarthritis Explained

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee happens when the cartilage in the knee joint wears down. Cartilage is a soft, smooth layer that covers the ends of bones. It helps the knee move without pain.

When cartilage breaks down, the bones rub together. This causes pain, swelling, and stiffness. Over time, the knee may become weak and hard to move.

Many people in Portland, Eugene, Salem, Gresham, and Hillsboro have knee osteoarthritis. It is one of the most common joint problems in older adults.

What Causes Knee Osteoarthritis?

Several things can cause knee osteoarthritis:

• Age: Cartilage gets weaker as people get older.
• Extra weight: Too much weight puts stress on the knees.
• Past injuries: A knee injury can lead to osteoarthritis later.
• Family history: If parents had knee osteoarthritis, the risk is higher.
• Overuse: Too much running or heavy lifting can damage the knee.

Who is at Risk?

Anyone can get knee osteoarthritis, but some people have a higher risk.

• People over 50 years old
• Those who are overweight or obese
• People who have had knee surgery or injury
• Those with jobs or hobbies that put pressure on the knees
• People with family members who have osteoarthritis

Dr. Raj at HWY Physical Therapy in Salem helps people with knee osteoarthritis. He offers custom treatment plans to reduce pain and improve movement. Call 971-202-1979 to get started.

Early Signs of Knee Osteoarthritis You Shouldn’t Ignore

Pain and Stiffness in the Morning

One of the first signs of knee osteoarthritis is morning stiffness. The knee may feel tight, sore, or hard to move. This usually lasts for a few minutes after waking up. As you start moving, the stiffness may get better.

Swelling and Inflammation

The knee may look puffy or swollen. This happens when the joint produces too much fluid due to irritation. Some people feel warmth around the knee. Swelling may come and go, but it often gets worse after long walks or standing too long.

Reduced Mobility and Difficulty Walking

As cartilage wears down, moving the knee becomes harder. You may notice:

• Trouble bending or straightening your knee
• Feeling like your knee is stuck
• Pain when walking, climbing stairs, or getting up from a chair

Over time, some people may even start limping due to pain and weakness.

Cracking or Grinding Sounds in the Knee

Many people hear cracking, popping, or grinding when they move their knee. This happens because the bones are rubbing together. These sounds are called crepitus and are common in knee osteoarthritis.

If you notice any of these early signs, it is best to take action now. Dr. Raj at HWY Physical Therapy in Salem offers treatment plans to help reduce pain and stiffness. Call 971-202-1979 today to learn more.

Best Non-Surgical Osteoarthritis Knee Pain Relief Options in Oregon

Many people in Portland, Eugene, Salem, Gresham, and Hillsboro want knee pain relief without surgery. The good news is that several non-surgical treatments can help. These options can reduce pain, improve movement, and protect the knee.

1. Physical Therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis in Portland, Eugene, Salem, Gresham, and Hillsboro

Physical therapy is one of the best ways to manage knee osteoarthritis. A licensed physical therapist can teach exercises that:

• Strengthen knee muscles to support the joint
• Improve flexibility to reduce stiffness
• Increase balance to prevent falls

Regular therapy can help people move better and feel less pain. Dr. Raj at HWY Physical Therapy in Salem offers custom therapy plans to help people stay active. Call 971-202-1979 to book an appointment.

2. Lifestyle Modifications for Osteoarthritis Knee Pain Relief

Making small changes in daily life can protect the knees. These include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight: Extra weight puts pressure on the knees. Losing even 5 to 10 pounds can reduce knee pain.
• Low-impact exercises: Walking, swimming, and cycling are easy on the knees.
• Stretching and flexibility exercises: Gentle stretches keep the knee flexible and reduce stiffness.

3. Knee Braces and Supportive Devices

Wearing a knee brace can help support the joint and reduce pain. There are different types of braces:

• Unloader braces: Reduce pressure on the knee joint
• Support braces: Provide extra stability when walking

Braces are a good option for people who feel weakness or pain while moving.

4. Medications for Managing Osteoarthritis Pain

Many people take medications to help with knee pain. Some common options include:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help with mild pain.
• Prescription medications: Doctors may recommend stronger medicines if the pain is severe.
• Natural supplements: Some people take glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health.

5. Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis Pain Relief

If pain is still a problem, injections may help. Common types include:

• Corticosteroid injections: Reduce swelling and pain for a few months.
• Hyaluronic acid injections: Add lubrication to the knee joint.
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: Uses the body's own healing cells to reduce pain.

These treatments can give relief for several months, but they may need to be repeated.

For personalized non-surgical knee pain relief, Dr. Raj at HWY Physical Therapy in Salem can help. He offers physical therapy, lifestyle coaching, and pain management plans. Call 971-202-1979 to get started.

Surgical Treatments for Severe Knee Osteoarthritis

When non-surgical treatments no longer work, surgery may be the next option. Many people in Portland, Eugene, Salem, Gresham, and Hillsboro choose surgery for long-term knee pain relief. Surgery can help reduce pain, restore movement, and improve quality of life.

1. When to Consider Knee Replacement Surgery?

Knee replacement surgery is needed when:

• Severe pain makes walking, standing, or sleeping difficult
• Stiffness and swelling do not improve with therapy or medications
• The knee buckles or gives out often
• X-rays show bone damage due to cartilage loss

If these symptoms affect daily life, surgery may be the best choice.

Partial vs. Total Knee Replacement

There are two types of knee replacement surgeries:

• Partial knee replacement: Only the damaged part of the knee is replaced. It has a shorter recovery time.
• Total knee replacement: The entire knee joint is replaced with an artificial one. This is for severe osteoarthritis.

A doctor will decide which surgery is best based on the knee's condition.

2. Alternative Surgical Procedures for Knee Osteoarthritis

If a full knee replacement is not needed, other surgeries may help.

Arthroscopic Surgery for Knee Pain Relief

• A small camera and tools are inserted into the knee.
• Damaged cartilage and bone spurs are removed.
• This helps reduce pain and improve movement.

This is best for mild to moderate osteoarthritis.

Osteotomy: Adjusting Knee Alignment to Reduce Pain

• The surgeon removes or adds bone to change the knee's angle.
• This moves pressure away from the damaged area.
• It is helpful for younger, active people with knee osteoarthritis.

Surgery is a big decision. It is important to explore all options first. Dr. Raj at HWY Physical Therapy in Salem helps people recover after surgery with physical therapy and strength training. Call 971-202-1979 for more information.

Natural Remedies for Osteoarthritis Knee Pain Relief

Many people in Portland, Eugene, Salem, Gresham, and Hillsboro look for natural ways to relieve knee osteoarthritis pain. Some home remedies and lifestyle changes can help reduce pain, improve movement, and protect the joints.

Herbal Supplements and Anti-Inflammatory Diets

Certain foods and supplements can help reduce knee inflammation and pain.

• Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Ginger: May help reduce swelling and stiffness.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, these help reduce joint pain.
• Glucosamine and chondroitin: Some people take these to support cartilage health.

Eating a healthy diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can also reduce inflammation. Avoiding processed foods and sugary drinks may help with pain relief.

Acupuncture and Massage Therapy

Some people find relief with acupuncture. This is a practice where thin needles are placed in certain points on the body. It may help reduce knee pain and improve movement.

Massage therapy can also help by:

• Increasing blood flow to the knee
• Reducing muscle stiffness around the joint
• Promoting relaxation and stress relief

Heat and Cold Therapy for Pain Management

Using heat or ice can help manage knee pain at home.

• Heat therapy: Warm towels, heating pads, or hot showers can relax muscles and improve blood flow.
• Cold therapy: Ice packs or frozen gel packs can reduce swelling and numb pain.

Applying heat or ice for 15-20 minutes at a time can provide quick relief.

Staying Active with Low-Impact Exercises

Regular gentle exercise can help keep the knee strong and flexible. The best low-impact exercises for knee osteoarthritis include:

• Walking on flat surfaces
• Swimming or water aerobics
• Cycling on a stationary bike
• Yoga and stretching exercises

Moving the knee keeps joints healthy and reduces stiffness. However, avoid high-impact activities like running or jumping, which can worsen knee pain.

Can Natural Remedies Replace Medical Treatments?

Natural remedies can help manage pain, but they cannot replace medical care. It is important to talk to a doctor or physical therapist before starting any new treatment.

For a personalized knee pain relief plan, Dr. Raj at HWY Physical Therapy in Salem offers custom exercise programs and natural pain management techniques. Call 971-202-1979 to get started today.

Best Clinics and Specialists for Osteoarthritis Knee Pain Relief in Portland, Eugene, Salem, Gresham, and Hillsboro

Finding the right knee pain specialist is important for managing osteoarthritis. Many people in Portland, Eugene, Salem, Gresham, and Hillsboro look for trusted clinics that offer effective treatments.

How to Find the Best Knee Pain Specialists Near You

When choosing a clinic or specialist, consider these factors:

• Experience: Look for a specialist who treats knee osteoarthritis regularly.
• Treatment options: Choose a clinic that offers physical therapy, non-surgical treatments, and pain management.
• Location: A nearby clinic makes it easier to attend regular appointments.
• Reviews: Read patient feedback to learn about the quality of care.

Recommended Physical Therapy for Knee Pain in Salem

For knee osteoarthritis relief, HWY Physical Therapy at Center 50+ in Salem is a great choice. Dr. Raj provides:

• Personalized physical therapy programs to strengthen the knee
• Gentle stretching and movement exercises to improve flexibility
• Balance training to reduce the risk of falls
• Pain relief techniques without surgery

He has helped many people in Salem and nearby areas feel better and move more easily.

HWY Physical Therapy – Center 50+

Salem City Building, 2615 Portland Rd NE, Salem, OR 97301

Call 971-202-1979 to book an appointment.

What to Ask Your Knee Pain Specialist

Before starting treatment, ask these questions:

• What is the best treatment for my knee pain?
• How long will therapy take to show results?
• Can I manage my pain without surgery?
• What exercises should I do at home?

A good specialist will explain treatment options clearly and help you make the right choice.

If you are looking for expert knee osteoarthritis care, visit HWY Physical Therapy in Salem. Dr. Raj is ready to help you get relief from knee pain. Call 971-202-1979 to learn more.

How to Prevent Osteoarthritis Knee Pain from Worsening

Preventing knee osteoarthritis from getting worse is important for staying active and pain-free. People in Portland, Eugene, Salem, Gresham, and Hillsboro can follow simple steps to protect their knee joints.

Daily Habits to Protect Your Knee Joints

Small changes in daily life can help reduce pain and slow joint damage.

• Maintain a healthy weight: Extra weight puts pressure on the knees. Losing even 5 to 10 pounds can reduce pain.
• Use good posture: Stand and walk with your back straight and knees slightly bent. Avoid slouching or locking your knees.
• Take breaks: Do not stand or sit too long. Change positions every 30 to 60 minutes to avoid stiffness.
• Avoid high-impact activities: Running, jumping, and deep squats can damage the knee joint.

The Importance of Regular Movement and Strength Training

Staying active is one of the best ways to keep the knees healthy.

• Gentle exercises like walking, cycling, and swimming keep the knees flexible.
• Strength training builds muscles around the knee to provide better support.
• Balance exercises reduce the risk of falls and injuries.

Dr. Raj at HWY Physical Therapy in Salem creates custom exercise programs to help people move better without pain. Call 971-202-1979 for more details.

Foods That Support Joint Health

Eating the right foods can help reduce knee inflammation and pain.

• Leafy greens (spinach, kale, broccoli): Rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
• Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, tuna): Contains omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation.
• Nuts and seeds (walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds): Support joint health.
• Olive oil: A healthy fat that reduces joint stiffness.
• Berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries): Help fight inflammation.

Avoid processed foods, sugar, and fried foods, as they increase inflammation.

Take Steps to Protect Your Knees Today

Knee osteoarthritis can get worse over time. But with the right lifestyle, exercises, and diet, you can keep your knees strong and pain-free.

For personalized knee care, visit HWY Physical Therapy in Salem. Dr. Raj helps people stay active and independent with safe and effective treatments. Call 971-202-1979 to get started.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Osteoarthritis Knee Pain Today

Knee osteoarthritis can make daily life hard and painful. But the good news is that you can manage the pain. Simple steps like exercise, weight management, and therapy can make a big difference.

If you live in Portland, Eugene, Salem, Gresham, or Hillsboro, you have many treatment options. You do not have to live with knee pain every day. The sooner you start treatment, the better your knee health will be.

At HWY Physical Therapy in Salem, Dr. Raj helps people reduce pain and move better. His personalized treatment plans focus on:

• Physical therapy to strengthen the knee
• Gentle exercises to improve flexibility
• Pain relief methods without surgery

If you have knee osteoarthritis, do not wait for the pain to get worse. Take action today and improve your quality of life.

Topics to Read Further

If you want to learn more about knee osteoarthritis and its treatments, here are some useful topics:

1. Best Exercises for Osteoarthritis Knee Pain Relief
2. How Diet Affects Osteoarthritis: Foods to Eat and Avoid
3. Non-Surgical vs. Surgical Treatments for Knee Osteoarthritis

Contact HWY PT for Expert Advice and Support

Are you tired of knee pain slowing you down? Get the right treatment and expert care at HWY Physical Therapy in Salem.

Dr. Raj specializes in physical therapy and pain relief for knee osteoarthritis. His custom treatment plans help you move better, feel stronger, and live pain-free.

HWY Physical Therapy – Center 50+

Salem City Building, 2615 Portland Rd NE, Salem, OR 97301

Call 971-202-1979 today to book your consultation.

Take the first step toward better knee health—contact HWY PT today!