MRI scanning. Why and what is it.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is a non-invasive and painless procedure that can be used to examine the joints, including the knee, and can help to diagnose a wide range of conditions.

An MRI scan of a joint, such as the knee, can provide detailed images of the bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and muscles in the joint, as well as the surrounding soft tissue. This can help to identify issues such as:

• Osteoarthritis: degeneration of the cartilage in the joint

• Rheumatoid arthritis: inflammation of the joint

• Meniscal tears: tears in the cartilage that cushion the knee joint

• Ligament or tendon tears: tears in the structures that hold the joint together

• Tumors or cysts: abnormal growths in the joint

• Fractures: breaks in the bones of the joint

During an MRI scan, the patient will lie on a table that is moved into the center of a large, cylindrical scanner. The scanner uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of the body. The patient may need to wear a special gown or clothing that does not contain metal, and may be asked to remove any jewelry or other metal objects. Some patients may receive a contrast agent injection to enhance the images.

An MRI scan is usually a safe and painless procedure, however, some people may experience a feeling of claustrophobia or anxiety while inside the scanner. It is also not recommended for people with certain types of metal implants, such as pacemakers, as the magnetic field may interfere with their operation.

We can arrange private MRI scanning near you nationwide. Info@wessex-knee.com here is a direct link to book. https://www.wessex-knee.com/book-online-mri

Knee injections for knee pain.

Knee injections are a form of treatment that involve injecting medication into the knee joint to help alleviate pain and inflammation. There are several types of knee injections that can be used for different conditions.

• Corticosteroid injections: These are one of the most common types of knee injections. They are made of a type of steroid medication that can reduce inflammation and pain. They can be used to treat conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and tendinitis. These injections usually provide quick pain relief but the effect may be temporary and the injection may need to be repeated.

• Hyaluronan injections: These are also known as viscosupplementation, they are designed to mimic the natural lubricating fluid that is found in the knee joint. They can be used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee. These injections can take a few weeks to become effective and the effects can last for several months.

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections: These are made of a concentrated amount of platelets taken from the patient's own blood. Platelets contain growth factors that can help to promote healing and reduce inflammation. They are used to treat conditions such as tendinitis, ligament sprains, and cartilage injuries.

• Stem cell injections: These are made of stem cells taken from the patient's own body, such as from bone marrow or fat. These cells have the ability to differentiate into different types of cells and can promote healing and reduce inflammation. These are used to treat conditions such as osteoarthritis, cartilage injuries and tendinitis.

Knee injections can be given in a doctor's office or clinic, usually performed by an orthopedic surgeon or rheumatologist. They are relatively safe but like with any procedure, there are some risks and potential side effects such as pain, bleeding or infection. It's important to discuss with the doctor about the benefits and risks of any knee injection treatment before deciding if it is right for you. Contact us here at Wessex knee in Southampton on info@wessex-knee.com for more info.

Can a knee brace help me when I have osteoarthritis or a ligament injury.

Knee braces are devices that are worn around the knee to provide support and stability to the joint. They can be used to help prevent knee injuries, provide protection after an injury, or help to manage the symptoms of conditions such as osteoarthritis or patellofemoral pain syndrome.

There are several types of knee braces available, each with different features and designs that are intended for specific uses. Some of the most common types of knee braces include:

• Prophylactic knee braces: These braces are worn by athletes or people who engage in activities that put a lot of stress on the knee, such as skiing or soccer. They are designed to help prevent knee injuries by providing extra support and stability to the knee.

• Functional knee braces: These braces are worn by people who have had a knee injury or surgery, or who have a condition that causes instability in the knee. They are designed to help control knee movement and reduce the risk of further injury.

• Rehabilitative knee braces: These braces are worn by people who are in the process of recovering from a knee injury or surgery. They are designed to help support the knee as it heals and to limit the amount of stress on the knee.

• Unloading knee braces: These are used to help manage the symptoms of knee osteoarthritis, they are designed to shift some of the weight-bearing load off the joint, allowing the knee to bear less weight.

It's important to note that knee braces are not intended to replace or substitute for other treatments such as physical therapy, surgery, or medication. They are a supportive device that can be used in combination with other treatments. It is important to consult with an orthopedic surgeon or physical therapist to determine if a knee brace is right for you, and to make sure it is the correct type and fit for your specific condition or injury. For more info or a review contact us here in Southampton on info@wessex-knee.com