Effective Ways To Overcome Knee Pain In The Elderly

JAKARTA - Knee pain is a complaint that is very often experienced by the elderly. This condition not only disturbs comfort, but can also limit daily activities such as walking, climbing stairs, and even standing for a long time.

The pain that comes can be blunt, sharp, stiff in the morning, or even accompanied by swelling. So, why is knee pain prone to the elderly?

According to dr. Ricky Edwin P Hutapea, Sp.OT (K) Hip and Knee Consultant & Pinggul from Eka Hospital BSD, natural changes in the body due to the aging process are the main factors that make the knee vulnerable.

The knee is a very complex part of the body and carries a heavy burden every day. Over time, the structure inside has a degeneracy, ranging from thin, weakened supporting bones, to reduced production of joint lubricant, "explained doctor Ricky in his statement.

One of the most common causes of knee pain in the elderly is osteoartritis or joint calcification. This disease occurs when a vulnerable bone that protects the ends of the bone in the joints is damaged, causing direct friction between bones that causes pain and stiffness.

In addition, reumatoid disorders, autoimmune disorders that attack the joint layer, can also trigger chronic inflammation in the knee. Several other conditions such as gout (conceiving gout crystals), pseudogouts, old injuries, burstitis, and tendinitis play a role in exacerbating the condition of the elderly's knee. Some of the symptoms that should be watched out for include swelling, persistent pain that does not improve, and difficulty moving or walking.

Solutions to treat knee pain vary widely, depending on the causes and severity.

Physical therapy, the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as tools such as knee supports can be the first step. In more severe cases, further medical interventions such as corticosteroid injection to surgery may be needed.

Eka Hospital itself presents the latest technology in handling knee pain through the Total Knee Replacement (TKR) procedure assisted by the Velys Robotic-Assisted Surgery robot. This technology allows the procedure for replacing the knee joints to be carried out with high precision, based on the unique anatomy of each patient.

"With the help of a robotic system, implants can be installed more accurately, thereby accelerating recovery and reducing the risk of complications," said dr. Ricky.

Interestingly, patients who undergo procedures with Velys can wake up and walk just hours after surgery. This is certainly good news for the elderly who want to be active again and free from prolonged pain.

If you or your closest person experience complaints of knee pain that interfere with the quality of life, don't delay consulting. Through proper handling and increasingly sophisticated medical technology, the elderly can still enjoy the days more comfortably and independently.