Knee osteoarthritis is a chronic condition where the cartilage in the knee deteriorates, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. It primarily affects older adults and can result from aging, overuse, genetic factors, or injuries. Treatment includes pain relief, physical therapy, medication, and sometimes a knee replacement.
A treatment at Cortoclinics is covered by the Dutch basic health insurance. If you want your treatment to be reimbursed through your Dutch health insurer, you’ll need a referral letter from your general practitioner. Please make sure to bring this letter to your first appointment or send it to us in advance.
We always plan a first outpatient visit well in advance, so that you have plenty of time to ask questions. Once everything is clear, we will start working on a treatment plan for you, based on your specific situation and needs.
The knee joint facilitates the transfer of strength and movement between the upper and lower leg, balancing stability and mobility. The (cruciate) ligaments, meniscus, and capsule provide passive stability and strength; the meniscus also acts as a shock absorber.
Muscles provide active stability and movement, quickly adapting to absorb stress. Cartilage allows the bones to glide smoothly, while the joint capsule produces synovial fluid to reduce friction.
Cartilage in the knee can wear down or become damaged. The space between the upper and lower leg bones then becomes smaller, causing them to rub against each other. This rubbing changes the shape of the cartilage and sometimes the bones, leading to osteoarthritis. This condition can cause pain and make it difficult to move the knee.
Osteoarthritis is a specific condition affecting joint cartilage.
Sometimes, pain only occurs after intense activity. As osteoarthritis progresses, pain can also occur during everyday activities or at night. Many people experience less discomfort while cycling compared to walking.
Knee osteoarthritis does not always cause pain, and not everyone experiences it in the same way. Some people are more affected by limited mobility or muscle soreness resulting from restricted movement.
The diagnosis of hip osteoarthritis is made based on an assessment of symptoms, physical examination, X-rays, and medical history. The orthopedic surgeon evaluates your gait, joint mobility, and any swelling or tenderness.
X-rays show the location of the osteoarthritis, which can be present in various parts of the hip joint. A CT scan, MRI, or bone scan can detect smaller cartilage injuries within the joint.
No referral letter yet?
Osteoarthritis is irreversible and cannot be cured. Together with your doctor, you will choose the best treatment based on the severity of your symptoms and the stage of the osteoarthritis. Surgery is not always necessary, especially in the early stage and self-care can help relieve many symptoms.
You can reduce your symptoms by making lifestyle changes, such as avoiding excess weight, getting enough physical activity, and quitting smoking.
Injecting medicaties such as local anesthetics, corticosteroids, or hyaluronic acid can relieve pain and reduce inflammation and fluid in the knee joint.
In the early stages of osteoarthritis, pain-relieving medication or a course of anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help alleviate symptoms.
An artificial knee joint can improve quality of life in cases of advanced osteoarthritis.
Read here: What it’s like to undergo knee replacement surgery
Orthopedic surgeons Nanne Kort, Paul van Rensch, and Frank Jonkers are orthopedic care experts with years of experience in hip replacement surgeries. They use the latest technologies, such as Mako robotic arm technology, to ensure precision and optimal results. The Cortoclinics approach – advanced orthopedic care combined with warm personal attention – is focused on long-term satisfaction. Everything is aimed at your recovery and well-being. At Cortoclinics, you are in experienced and skilled hands.
A clinic appointment with the orthopedic specialist within five working days.
Smart digital tools to support you in the best way possible.
Ensuring the best fit and alignment, faster recovery, and long-term satisfaction.
In our clinic, you’re a person, not a number.
Our treatments are reimbursed by all Dutch health insurers.
