Dr. Howard J. Luks is an orthopedist who published a reasonable and fairly comprehensive article on knee osteoarthritis management. Thankfully, knee replacement surgery is the last resort for this surgeon. He discusses exercise, tai chi, diet, yoga, knee injections, NSAIDs, ice, heat, etc.

Osteoarthritis of the knee is a prevalent health issue. Despite a diagnosis of arthritis of the knee, the majority of you can live an active, happy life. But you’ve heard awful phrases used to describe your Xrays– phrases like Bone on Bone, bone spurs, degeneration, wearing away, etc. Those phrases scare you. I got that!

Life does not stop after a diagnosis of arthritis. Exercise is perhaps the best medicine for your arthritis. Exercising a joint that you’ve been told is wearing out may seem counterintuitive. Exercise is essential if your goal is to avoid surgery for as long as possible. Being active will not cause your arthritis to worsen. Not all pain implies harm

Click for dr. Luks’ exercise recommendations for stronger legs.

Steve Parker, M.D