Many people believe that waking up with stiff, aching knees is simply an unavoidable part of blowing out 50+ candles on their birthday cake. While joint changes do occur as we age, persistent discomfort is not something you just have to live with.
At Coastal Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine in New Port Richey, Florida, Dr. Peter Candelora, MD, helps patients understand and treat chronic knee pain. We focus on finding the root cause of your discomfort so you can stay active, independent, and mobile.
No, severe knee pain is not a normal or inevitable consequence of getting older. While wear and tear happen over time, constant pain usually points to an underlying condition that we can actively treat.
According to the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging (2022), 70% of adults between the ages of 50 and 80 report experiencing joint pain. However, the Mayo Clinic (2023) emphasizes that severe joint breakdown is often driven by genetics, anatomy, and previous injuries rather than aging alone.
The most common culprit behind joint discomfort in older adults is arthritis, specifically osteoarthritis. This condition occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones gradually wears down over time.
Research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH, 2024) shows that osteoarthritis affects the knees of up to 30% of adults over the age of 45. When this cartilage erodes, it leads to painful friction, swelling, and stiffness that makes daily activities difficult.
You don't have to accept joint pain as your new normal. Many effective non-surgical strategies can help rebuild your mobility and reduce discomfort.
Building stronger muscles around your joints is one of the best ways to protect them. Strengthening your quadriceps and hip muscles helps create a natural support system that takes the pressure off your knees.
Localized treatments like topical pain creams can also provide targeted relief with fewer side effects than oral pills.
If conservative methods don't provide enough relief, Dr. Candelora offers advanced solutions to help you find lasting comfort. From minimally invasive arthroscopy to state-of-the-art joint replacement options like the Zimmer Smart IQ Knee, we tailor our care to your unique needs.
Living with knee pain can keep you from enjoying the activities you love, but you don't have to go through it alone. Taking action early gives you the best chance of preserving your joint health.
If you're ready to find relief and get back to your active lifestyle, we are here to help. Contact our office today by phone or online to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Candelora.
