Knee Arthritis Specialist
In Singapore
Dr Chiam Tut Fu
MBBS (Singapore)
MSS (Sports Medicine) (USA)
MMed (OM) (Singapore)
GDOM (Singapore)
DWD (Singapore)
Overview
Knee Arthritis is a degenerative condition characterised by inflammation and deterioration of the knee joint. The knee, a hinge joint, is where the thigh bone (femur) meets the shinbone (tibia). It plays a crucial role in movement, particularly in actions such as walking, running, and jumping. When arthritis occurs in the knee, these movements can become painful and challenging.
Causes of Knee Arthritis
- Age-related wear and tear: As we age, the cartilage in the knee joint gradually wears away, leading to osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis in the knee.
- Inflammatory conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis cause inflammation in the joints, including the knee, leading to pain and stiffness.
- Post-traumatic arthritis: This form of arthritis develops following a knee injury. Damage to the knee’s cartilage or ligaments can lead to uneven distribution of weight and pressure on the joint, causing it to wear out more quickly.
Symptoms of Knee Arthritis
- Pain and stiffness in the knee: This is often the first sign of arthritis. The pain tends to be worse in the morning or after a period of inactivity.
- Swelling around the knee joint: Can occur due to inflammation or because of extra fluid in the joint.
- Difficulty in knee mobility: Bending and straightening the knee can become challenging as arthritis progresses.
- Pain that worsens with activity: Activities that put pressure on the joint, such as walking or climbing stairs, can exacerbate the pain.
Types of Knee Arthritis
-
Osteoarthritis
The most common type of knee arthritis, often associated with aging. It involves the wear-and-tear of the cartilage in the knee joint.
-
Rheumatoid Arthritis
An autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks the lining of the joint capsule, leading to inflammation and joint damage.
-
Post-traumatic Arthritis
A type of arthritis that occurs after a knee injury. The injury may damage the cartilage, leading to its faster deterioration.
Diagnosis of Knee Arthritis
-
Physical examination
The doctor will check the knee for swelling, pain, tenderness, warmth and visible bruising, and will also check how well you can move your lower leg in different directions.
-
Imaging tests
X-rays can show bone damage and cartilage loss. An MRI can provide a more detailed look at the soft tissues of your knee and can help detect early stages of arthritis.
-
Laboratory tests
Blood tests and joint fluid analysis can help identify the type of arthritis you have.
Minimally Invasive Treatments We Use To Treat
Knee Arthritis
An injection that alleviates pain and inflammation associated with musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis, bursitis, tendinitis and joint pain.
Targeted pain relief in the administered area and reduced inflammation.
Little to no recovery time. Patients may resume their normal activities promptly.
Works well in chronically injured tissues which may have very slow recovery
Anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects
Little or no downtime and patients can walk out after the 30 min procedure
Restores the physiologic viscoelasticity in the synovial fluid (SF) in the absence of inflammation
Nonoperative and FDA-approved treatment for arthritis of the knee in Singapore
Results usually last for 2 - 3 months. In some cases, the relief can last for 6 - 12 months
Treats flare-ups of OA pain and swelling with fluid buildup in the knee
Reduces inflammation in the joint
Can quickly relieve these symptoms, usually within 1-3 days
Uses low-level light to stimulate healing. Does not cause your tissues to heat up. LLLT is used to treat various musculoskeletal conditions, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing.
Painless, Quick, Effective, and No downtime. Patients can return to their normal activities immediately after an LLLT session.
Dr Chiam Tut Fu
(詹达夫医生)
MBBS (Singapore)
MSS (Sports Medicine) (USA)
MMed (OM) (Singapore)
GDOM (Singapore)
DWD (Singapore)
Dr Chiam is a MOH accredited Specialist in Sports Medicine and has practised medicine for over 30 years.
Dr Chiam Tut Fu obtained his MBBS from National University of Singapore in 1990. He went on to obtain his Masters in Sports Science (Sports Medicine) from the United States Sports Academy, graduating as the year’s outstanding student, and Masters of Medicine (Occupational Medicine) from the National University of Singapore.
Key Interests:
- Non-surgical treatment of sports injuries
- Non-surgical treatment of degenerative conditions
- Nutraceuticals for healthy ageing and exercise performance
Need Advice On Your Condition?
Do you have an enquiry about your sports injury or body joint condition? Please leave us a message and we will be in touch with you shortly.
Mon to Fri: 9:00am – 1:00pm
2:00pm – 6:00pm
Sat: 9:00am – 1:00pm
Sun & PH: Closed
Singapore Paincare Center
Paragon Medical Centre, #18-03
290 Orchard Road, Singapore 238859
Partnered Programs & Insurance Plans
For Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents and Foreigners.
Please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Knee Arthritis heal on its own?
No, arthritis is a degenerative disease and it typically worsens over time. However, the symptoms can be managed with appropriate treatment.
How long does it take to recover from Knee Arthritis?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the arthritis and the treatment method used. It’s a chronic condition and management is usually long-term.
Can you still exercise with Knee Arthritis?
Yes, low-impact exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve flexibility.
What happens if Knee Arthritis is not treated?
Untreated Knee Arthritis can lead to increasing pain, joint damage, and disability.