Question
I read your answer to the question re Synvisc efficacy for a runner with knee osteoarthritis (posted 2/13/99). I had already gathered that hyaluronate injections would not be very helpful to runners. I run 5-15 mile races, and I am not going to stop until I am wheelchair-bound. I have tried hot packs, cold packs, analgesics, NSAIDS, physical therapy, Cho-Pat strap, knee braces, and two arthroscopic surgeries over the last 7 years. So, what can I do to reduce the pain in both knees from osteoarthritis so that I can keep running these races? The Bionicare BIO-1000 device? Unfortunately, acupuncture, acupressure, and massage are not covered by my insurance.
Answer
For other readers, although running is likely not a cause of knee osteoarthritis, osteoarthritis certainly becomes more painful during running. Running, particulary on hard surfaces is very stressful on the knees. You seem to have covered the spectrum of available approaches. Physical therapy to build knee stability and quadricep strength remains perhaps the key modality. If only one compartment of the knee is affected, bracing to “unload” that compartment can be effective, but realize that it puts stress on the other compartment.
