Did you know that your knee is an extremely complex hinge joint that contains three separate compartments? The three compartments are comprised of the medial (on the inside of the knee), lateral (the outside of the knee) and patellofemoral compartments (the front part of the knee that lies between the kneecap and the thigh bone). Tricompartmental syndrome osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disorder of the knee. It some cases, it may be limited to one or two compartments, or it may include all three compartments and effect the entire knee.
Tri-Compartmental Syndrome Osteoarthritis
In order to diagnose tri-compartmental syndrome, your doctor is likely to perform an examination, and consider your symptoms and medical history. They may also ask you to stand and walk so they can evaluate your gait and range of motion. In most cases where pain is persistent or chronic, the orthopedic surgeon will order certain tests or scans, such as MRI, CT scan or X-ray, to help them make a definitive determination about the cause of your pain. Symptoms of tri-compartmental syndrome may include:
- Knee swelling, redness, or stiffness
- Loss of range of motion and difficulty walking
- Popping, grinding, or clicking sounds from the knee
- Knee instability or weakness
- Impaired gait when walking
- Trouble extending or bending the knee
- Pain that may be worse earlier in the day
- Bone fragments or cartilage that sticks out, or may be visible on an X-Ray
Other issues, such as excess weight, joint injuries, bone and soft tissue deformities, a torn meniscus, or otherwise worn and damaged cartilage can complicate or exacerbate tri-compartmental syndrome. Additionally, risk factors for developing tri-compartmental syndrome osteoarthritis can increase with age. It is also more common in women than men. Genetics may also play a role because it can run in families.
Treatment for tri-compartmental syndrome osteoarthritis will depend on the severity and location of the damage. In some cases, a partial or total knee replacement may be required to restore function and relieve pain. This can often be done with a less invasive arthroscopic surgery, rather than a more invasive traditional “open” procedure.
Treatment may also involve occupational or physical therapy, prescription medications to lower inflammation and provide pain relief, injections, or other targeted treatments aimed at improving your range of motion and function. At Orthopaedic Associates, we offer both surgical and non-surgical treatments for all forms of orthopedic and sports injuries and conditions. We offer patient centered, team focused care to help you get back to doing the things you love.
If you, or a loved one, is living with knee pain, you owe it to yourself to learn about leading edge medical techniques and technologies that may be able to reduce or eliminate your knee pain, restore function, and increase your range of motion. If you would like more information about nerve pain treatments, or to schedule an appointment, please contact Orthopaedic Associates at (440) 892-1440 today.
