What Causes Osteoarthritis of the Knee?

Before I discuss what causes osteoarthritis of the knee let me review what healthy cartilage in the knee is made from. The cartilage in the knee joint is called hyaline cartilage or articular cartilage.  It is found at the ends of joints so that it allows for smooth movements.  It is made up of the following:

• 70% Water
• 15% Collagen (a protein).  Type II
• 15% Proteoglycans (protein), Chondrocytes (cartilage forming cells), non collagen proteins, lipids and organic materials

In a healthy knee, cartilage is always in the process of being remodeled due to normal wear and tear of the knee joint. Hyaline cartilage is constantly being broken down by the enzyme, matrix metalloproteinase, and being replaced and rebuilt by chondrocytes (cartilage cells).  In a healthy knee there is a balance between cartilage cells that are rebuilding and replacing cartilage and enzymes that are breaking the cartilage down. Unfortunately, genetics, aging, weight, disease, surgery and injuries to the knee all play a role in contributing to throwing off that balance and allowing more cartilage to be broken down then regenerated.  When the amount of cartilage is being degraded faster than it is being synthesized by chondrocytes than cartilage naturally degenerates.

One of the main proteins that is believed to be responsible for causing this imbalance in enzyme activity and inhibiting cartilage development is interleukin-1.  This cytokine creates inflammation in the joint, it stimulates more of the enzyme that destroys cartilage, it does not allow collagen to be produced, and it suppresses chondrocytes from producing proteoglycans.

It is reasonable to assume that if interleukin-1 was inhibited, and the number of chondrocytes outnumbered the enzyme that destroyed cartilage then the effects of osteoarthritis would be negligible.

Click here to read more about How Cold Laser Therapy Helps Stave off the Effects of Osteoarthritis in the Knee by Inhibiting Interleukin-1 and Stimulating Chondrocytes

If you live in the Dallas, Fort Worth or surrounding areas call our office at 214- 596-1051 to find out if you’re a candidate for Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program.

Or if you would like more information about Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program fill out the form on the right side of this screen to get your FREE report mailed to you entitled, Amazing Cold Laser Therapy the Missing Link to Knee Pain Relief!

Dr. Alexandra K. Schnee, B.S.,D.C.,-Your Cold Laser Professional for the Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas Area-“Helping People with Knee Pain and Joint Pain in the Dallas, Fort Worth and surrounding areas since 2001.”

Knee Pain Eased and Mobility Improved with Dallas Cold Laser Doctors’ Knee Therapy

Before starting treatments with Dr. Alexandra Schnee I had arthroscopic knee surgery done for both knees. I also had cortisone injections, and I was taking pain medication but nothing helped relieve my knee pain.  I was unable to walk at a normal pace, and I waddled and limped when I walked because my knee pain was so severe.

Since completing treatments at the DFW Spine & Joint Center with Dr. Alexandra Schnee I estimate that I am 50% better in mobility and my knee pain has reduced by 50 percent.  I can also stand for a longer period of time.  My walking is better and easier, and stairs are easier to climb.

Delores C., 53 years young, Secretary, Arlington, Texas

If you are an individual that is still suffering with knee pain after having both knees scoped then you may benefit from Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program.

Dr. Alexandra Schnee practices in Irving, Texas at the DFW Spine & Joint Center.  Find out if you are a candidate for Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program by calling her office at 214-596-1051, or fill out the information on the right side of this screen to get a FREE 16 page report mailed to you about  Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program.

Dr. Alexandra K. Schnee, B.S.,D.C.,-Your Cold Laser Professional for the Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas Area-“Helping People with Knee Pain and Joint Pain in the Dallas, Fort Worth and surrounding areas since 2001.”

Patient Cancels Knee Replacement Surgery After Bone on Bone Knee Pain is Eased with Cold Laser Knee Program in Irving, Texas

Before starting Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program I was informed that due to both knees being ‘bone on bone’ that I needed knee replacements. I was actually scheduled to have knee replacement surgery but I decided to complete Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program first to see if it would help relieve any of my knee pain.

Before starting treatments with Dr. Schnee, my left knee was sore and my right knee felt like there was an ice-pick jabbing into it on every step.   I could not get into my pool or work hardly at all due to the pain.  A few months ago, I even tried injections in both knees with no results.

Since completing Dr. Schnee’s Knee Program my knees feel 60% better, and I am no longer scheduled to get knee replacements.  Both of my knees have improved a lot and with the exercises Dr. Schnee gave me I hope to continue improving.

Ralph A., 83 years young, Weatherford TX, Retired

If you live in the Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving or surrounding areas call the DFW Spine & Joint Center at 214- 596-1051 to find out if you’re a candidate for Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program.

Or if you would like more information about Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program fill out the form on the right side of this screen to get your FREE report mailed to you entitled, Amazing Cold Laser Therapy the Missing Link to Knee Pain Relief!

Dr. Alexandra K. Schnee, B.S.,D.C.,-Your Cold Laser Professional for the Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas Area-“Helping People with Knee Pain and Joint Pain in the Dallas, Fort Worth and surrounding areas since 2001.”

Injured Muscles Heal Faster With Cold Laser Therapy

Scientists in Brazil evaluated the effects of cold laser therapy on traumatic muscle injuries in rats.  The injury was done by single-blunt injury to the gastrocnemius muscle (calf muscle).  Scientists separated the rats into three groups.   Group I  was the control group (uninjured and untreated).  Group II was injured but did not receive treatments.  Group III was injured and received cold laser treatments.  The results showed that after 5 days of cold laser treatments on Group III  the activities of complex II and succinate dehydrogenase increased when compared to the control group. Moreover, the results indicated that cold laser treatments on the injured rats significantly increased the activities of complexes I, II, III, IV and succinate dehydrogenase, when compared to the group of injured  rats that did not receive treatments.

The research showed that cold laser therapy increases mitochondrial ATP synthesis which in turn accelerates the muscle healing process.

If you are suffering from knee pain due to a muscle injury then Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program may be the answer to your problem!  Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Program is considered a complete treatment plan that combines low-level laser treatments (cold laser treatments), non-weight bearing exercises, and other modalities that promote rehabilitation of the knee.

Every patient’s program is unique depending on whether they suffer from arthritis, ‘bone on bone’, meniscus tears, bursitis, tendonitis, Baker’s Cyst, post surgical arthroscopic knee pain, or a combination of the listed conditions.

If you live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area call our office at 214- 596-1051 to find out if you’re a candidate for Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program.

Or if you would like more information about Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program fill out the form on the right side of this screen to get your FREE report mailed to you entitled, Amazing Cold Laser Therapy the Missing Link to Knee Pain Relief!

At the DFW Spine & Joint Center we also have programs available that can help most musculoskeletal conditions such as low back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, sciatica, disc and nerve problems, hip, ankle, foot, hand and wrist pain, etc…

Dr. Robert Hanson, an associate at the DFW Spine & Joint Center, offers a very successful non-surgical program that treats herniated, bulging, degenerated discs, stenosis, and pinched nerves with Cold Laser/Spinal Decompression Therapy.

Dr. Alexandra K. Schnee, B.S.,D.C.,-Your Cold Laser Professional of the Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas Area-“Helping People with Knee Pain and Joint Pain in the Dallas/Fort Worth Area since 2001.”

Silveira PC, Silva LA, Fraga DB, Freitas TP, Streck EL, Pinho R.  Evaluation of mitochondrial respiratory chain activity in muscle healing by low-level laser therapy. J Photochem Photobio B. 2009 Jan 21.

Before Finding Dr. Schnee He Contemplated Undergoing a Total Knee Replacement

Before starting Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program I had constant pain in the right knee when standing, walking or sleeping at night.  My knees also felt very unstable when I walked.  I tried medications, injections and arthroscopic knee surgery but none of those things helped.  I already had undergone a total knee replacement on my left knee so I was contemplating knee replacement for my right knee when I found Dr. Schnee.

I am so glad that I did Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program.  My right knee is now 75-80% better then it was before doing treatments.  I can now walk, stand and sleep through the night without much pain.  I am NOT contemplating a total knee replacement anymore.

Clifford D., 76 years young, Kroger Greeter, Dallas, TX

Patient mailed this unsolicited testimonial two months after he completed care in our office.

Doctors Note:  After examining Mr. D and taking x-rays of his right knee I diagnosed him with severe degenerative arthritis at the medial aspect (inside part of the knee-where the knees touch) of his knee joint.  He initially came in complaining of severe knee pain along with moderate swelling and stiffness.  He was unable to sleep through the night due to the pain in his knee.  He could hardly work because he had a difficult time standing and walking for any length of time.   After he completed treatments he is now able to sleep through the night without waking up from knee pain.   He is now able to work because he can stand and walk with very mild pain.  He does not feel that a total knee replacement is necessary at this time.

If you are suffering from knee pain then Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program may be the answer to your problem!  Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Program is considered a complete treatment plan that combines low-level laser treatments (cold laser treatments), non-weight bearing exercises, and other modalities that promote rehabilitation of the knee.

Every patient’s program is unique depending on whether they suffer from arthritis, ‘bone on bone’, meniscus tears, bursitis, tendonitis, Baker’s Cyst, post surgical arthroscopic knee pain, or a combination of the listed conditions.

If you live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area call our office at 214- 596-1051 to find out if you’re a candidate for Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program.

Or if you would like more information about Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program fill out the form on the right side of this screen to get your FREE report mailed to you entitled, Amazing Cold Laser Therapy the Missing Link to Knee Pain Relief!

At the DFW Spine & Joint Center we also have programs available that can help most musculoskeletal conditions such as low back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, sciatica, disc and nerve problems, hip, ankle, foot, hand and wrist pain, etc…

Dr. Robert Hanson, an associate at the DFW Spine & Joint Center, offers a very successful non-surgical program that treats herniated, bulging, degenerated discs, stenosis, and pinched nerves with Cold Laser/Spinal Decompression Therapy.

Dr. Alexandra K. Schnee, B.S.,D.C.,-Your Cold Laser Professional of the Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas Area-“Helping People with Knee Pain and Joint Pain in the Dallas/Fort Worth Area since 2001.”

Paulette S. Traveled All the Way from Bermuda to Complete Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program

My knee pain before starting treatments was extremely severe.  Since completing treatments with Dr. Schnee I have less pain and my mobility has improved.  My knees feel 60% better than they did before starting treatments.  I can now turn in bed while I’m sleeping and I have no pain (in my knees).  I also feel that I am walking better, and I can actually feel my knee caps (because the swelling has reduced)!

Paulette S., Postmaster, 60 years young, Warwick, Bermuda
Diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis, ‘bone on bone’

If you are suffering from knee pain due to cartilage loss, ‘bone on bone’, or osteoarthritis of the knee and you want to avoid a total knee replacement or you cannot undergo a total knee replacement due to other health problems then Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program may be the answer to your knee problem.

Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program is considered a complete treatment plan that combines low-level laser treatments (cold laser treatments), non-weight bearing exercises, and other modalities that promote rehabilitation of the knee.  Every patient’s program is different depending on whether they suffer from arthritis, ‘bone on bone’, meniscus tears, bursitis, tendonitis, Baker’s Cyst, post surgical arthroscopic knee pain, or a combination of the listed conditions.  If you live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area call our office at 214- 596-1051 to find out if you’re a candidate for Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program.

Or if you would like more information about Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program fill out the form on the right side of this screen to get your FREE report mailed to you entitled, Amazing Cold Laser Therapy the Missing Link to Knee Pain Relief!

At the DFW Spine & Joint Center we also have programs available that can help most musculoskeletal conditions such as low back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, sciatica, disc and nerve problems, hip, ankle foot, hand and wrist pain, etc…

Dr. Robert Hanson, an associate at the DFW Spine & Joint Center, offers a very successful non-surgical program that treats herniated, bulging, degenerated discs, stenosis, and pinched nerves with Cold Laser/Spinal Decompression Therapy.

Dr. Alexandra K. Schnee, B.S.,D.C.,-Your Cold Laser Professional of the Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas Area-“Helping People with Knee Pain and Joint Pain in the Dallas/Fort Worth Area since 2001.”

Laser Education 101: The History of Lasers

LASERs were first theorized by Albert Einstein in 1917.  In 1960, Dr. Endre Mester, a Hungarian scientist, invented laser technology.  Prior to being FDA Cleared in the U.S. cold lasers were being used in Europe, Japan and China to treat acute and chronic conditions. In addition, there were at least 2,000 studies already published proving the efficacy of cold laser therapy.  Years later, and after significant developments in the technology, cold lasers were finally cleared in the U.S. in 2001.

Currently, there are multiple types of cold lasers that are FDA cleared for the treatment of a variety of health conditions including arthritis pain.   In addition,  cold laser therapy is used in many hospitals, rehabilitation, and clinics in the U.S. and around the world.  In Europe, China, and Japan, it is not unusual for patients to undergo cold laser treatments to treat chronic and acute conditions in order to reduce pain, swelling and restore function.  In the United States almost every professional sports team and professional athlete uses cold laser therapy to treat injuries.  Cold lasers allow them to speed up the healing process, decrease pain, increase range of motion, and eliminate swelling.

Laser therapy has also proven to be a versatile and high-tech solution in the health care field.   By simply changing the wavelength, frequency and power of a cold laser it can be used for various health conditions.   For example, it is becoming more common for orthopedic doctors, pain management specialists, cosmetic surgeons, dentists, dermatologists, and podiatrists to use cold lasers as part of their arsenal of tools in assisting patients with their treatment goals.

Stay tuned for Laser Education 102…Learn how cold lasers work, why they work and why it’s the best option for treating knee pain.

If you’re suffering from knee pain then Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program is considered a complete treatment plan that combines low-level laser treatments (cold laser treatments), non-weight bearing exercises, and other modalities that promote rehabilitation of the knee.  Every patient’s program is different depending on whether they suffer from arthritis, ‘bone on bone’, meniscus tears, bursitis, tendonitis, Baker’s Cyst, post surgical arthroscopic knee pain, or a combination of the listed conditions.  If you live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area call our office at 214- 596-1051 to find out if you’re a candidate for Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program.

Or if you would like more information about Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program fill out the form on the right side of this screen to get your FREE report mailed to you entitled, Amazing Cold Laser Therapy the Missing Link to Knee Pain Relief!

At the DFW Spine & Joint Center we also have programs available that can help most musculoskeletal conditions such as low back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, sciatica, disc and nerve problems, hip, ankle, foot, hand and wrist pain, etc…

Dr. Robert Hanson, an associate at the DFW Spine & Joint Center, offers a very successful non-surgical program that treats herniated, bulging, degenerated discs, stenosis, and pinched nerves with Cold Laser/Spinal Decompression Therapy.

Dr. Alexandra K. Schnee, B.S.,D.C.,-Your Cold Laser Professional of the Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas Area-“Helping People with Knee Pain and Joint Pain in the Dallas/Fort Worth Area since 2001.”

Omega-3 Fatty Acids Help Boost the Effectiveness of Glucosamine

Recently in the Journal of Advances in Therapy German researchers discovered that adding omega-3 fatty acids (from fish oil) to glucosamine sulfate improves the symptoms of arthritis compared to just taking glucosamine alone.

One hundred seventy seven men and women diagnosed with moderate to severe hip or knee osteoarthritis were randomly placed in two groups.  The first group received glucosamine sulfate without omega-3 and the other group received glucosamine sulfate with the omega-3 fatty acid. Both groups took the supplements for 26 weeks.

Eighty percent of the group noticed a reduction in pain, 44% of those were from the group that received the combination of glucosamine and omega-3, and 32% of those were from the group that received only the glucosamine sulfate.

The authors of the study remarked that glucosamine sulfate improves cartilage metabolism, and omega-3’s help further reduce degradation of cartilage by reducing inflammation which ultimately helps reduce pain and swelling.

Note:  Glucosamine/Chondroitan/MSM should be used as a SUPPLEMENT to care. It is not a ‘cure all’ but if the correct dose and correct type of glucosamine is taken daily then you will notice a difference overall symptomatically.  (Please keep in mind that not all glucosamine is created equal.  This is a topic that I discuss with my patients because there seems to be a lot of confusion about it.)

If you have chronic pain in your knees due to arthritis, ‘bone on bone’, a meniscus tear, a Baker’s Cyst, tendonitis, bursitis, a knee injury, or unsuccessful arthroscopic knee surgery, and live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area call our office at 214- 596-1051 to find out if you’re a candidate for Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program.

Or if you would like more information about Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program fill out the form on the right side of this screen to get your FREE report mailed to you entitled, Amazing Cold Laser Therapy the Missing Link to Knee Pain Relief!

Dr. Alexandra K. Schnee, B.S.,D.C.,-Your Cold Laser Professional of the Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas Area-“Helping People with Knee Pain and Joint Pain in the Dallas/Fort Worth Area since 2001.”

Only 48% Were Able to Return to Their Normal Activities, Several years After Arthroscopic Surgery

A long-term study to determine the outcomes of patients who underwent arthroscopic  partial  lateral meniscectomy (partial removal of the lateral meniscus) for lateral meniscus tears was conducted in otherwise normal knees.  The study reviewed patient’s activity level, clinical, and x-ray results.

Patient’s who underwent the surgery were followed up with a minimum of 5-8 years later.  They were evaluated by questionnaire, x-rays, and knee examinations.  Initially, only 85% of those who underwent surgery were able to temporarily return to pre-injury activity level.  However, this percentage dropped to 48% at the time of follow-up.     The study concluded that the activity level of patients undergoing arthroscopic surgery for partial lateral meniscus removal is likely to deteriorate with time.  The study also concluded that patients should be counseled concerning long-term expectations regarding their knee pain.

If you’re still suffering from knee pain after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery then Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program may be the answer to your problem.  Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program is considered a complete treatment plan that combines low-level laser treatments (cold laser treatments), non-weight bearing exercises, and other modalities that promote rehabilitation of the knee.  Every patient’s program is different depending on whether they suffer from arthritis, ‘bone on bone’, meniscus tears, bursitis, tendonitis, Baker’s Cyst, post surgical arthroscopic knee pain, or a combination of the listed conditions.  If you live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area call our office at 214- 596-1051 to find out if you’re a candidate for Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program.

Or if you would like more information about Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program fill out the form on the right side of this screen to get your FREE report mailed to you entitled, Amazing Cold Laser Therapy the Missing Link to Knee Pain Relief!

At the DFW Spine & Joint Center we also have programs available that can help most musculoskeletal conditions such as low back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, sciatica, disc and nerve problems, hip, ankle, foot, hand and wrist pain, etc…

Dr. Robert Hanson, an associate at the DFW Spine & Joint Center, offers a very successful non-surgical program that treats herniated, bulging, degenerated discs, stenosis, and pinched nerves with Cold Laser/Spinal Decompression Therapy.

Dr. Alexandra K. Schnee, B.S.,D.C.,-Your Cold Laser Professional of the Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas Area-“Helping People with Knee Pain and Joint Pain in the Dallas/Fort Worth Area since 2001.”

Jaureguito JW. Elliot JS. Lietner T. Dixon LB. Reider B. Arthroscopy. The effects of arthroscopic partial lateral meniscectomy in an otherwise normal knee: a retrospective review of functional, clinical, and radiographic results. 11(1):29-36, 1995 Feb.

Study Proves If Your Over Forty Your Knee Will Be Worse Off After Undergoing Arthroscopic Knee Surgery

Forty-nine patients who were more than forty years old when medial meniscectomy (arthroscopic surgery to remove the medial meniscus due to a tear) was performed returned for follow-up evaluation one to twelve years postoperatively. Pain was present in 62.2 % of patients who underwent surgery to ‘clean out’ degenerative tears (tears due to arthritis), and in 75% of those who underwent surgery to ‘clean out’ traumatic tears (tears due to injury).

The medial (inner) joint space was significantly thinner in patients with degenerative tears versus those with traumatic tears.

The x-ray findings of osteoarthritis were significantly more severe on the side operated on.

The angle of the knee was relatively more ‘bow legged’ on the surgically treated knee (mean, 5.3 degrees) versus the knee that did not undergo surgery.

If you’ve had arthroscopic knee surgery in the past and you’re still suffering with knee pain then Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program is considered a complete treatment plan that combines low-level laser treatments (cold laser treatments), non-weight bearing exercises, and other modalities that promote rehabilitation of the knee.  Every patient’s program is different depending on whether they suffer from arthritis, ‘bone on bone’, meniscus tears, bursitis, tendonitis, Baker’s Cyst, post surgical arthroscopic knee pain, or a combination of the listed conditions.  If you live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area call our office at 214- 596-1051 to find out if you’re a candidate for Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program.

Or if you would like more information about Dr. Schnee’s Cold Laser Knee Program fill out the form on the right side of this screen to get your FREE report mailed to you entitled, Amazing Cold Laser Therapy the Missing Link to Knee Pain Relief!

At the DFW Spine & Joint Center we also have programs available that can help most musculoskeletal conditions such as low back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, sciatica, disc and nerve problems, hip, ankle, foot, hand and wrist pain, etc…

Dr. Robert Hanson, an associate at the DFW Spine & Joint Center, offers a very successful non-surgical program that treats herniated, bulging, degenerated discs, stenosis, and pinched nerves with Cold Laser/Spinal Decompression Therapy.

Dr. Alexandra K. Schnee, B.S.,D.C.,-Your Cold Laser Professional of the Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas Area-“Helping People with Knee Pain and Joint Pain in the Dallas/Fort Worth Area since 2001.”

Jones-RE; Smith-EC; Reisch-JS J-Bone-Joint-Surg-Am. Effects of medial meniscectomy in patients older than forty years. 1978 Sep; 60(6): 783-6.