Patient: 62-year-old male with a history of right knee pain.
History:
The patient presents with a chief complaint of right knee pain that has been worsening over the past six months. The pain is described as a dull ache, exacerbated by weight-bearing activities such as walking and climbing stairs. He reports stiffness in the morning that lasts for approximately 30 minutes. The pain is partially relieved by rest and over-the-counter pain medication. There is no history of trauma. The pain significantly impacts his ability to participate in his usual activities, including his daily walks and playing with his grandchildren.
Past Medical History:
- Hypertension
- Hyperlipidemia
- Previous left knee arthroscopy
Examination:
On examination, the patient is ambulatory with an antalgic gait. There is mild swelling and tenderness to palpation over the medial joint line of the right knee. Range of motion is limited to 0-100 degrees of flexion. A varus deformity is noted. The McMurray test is negative. The Lachman test is negative. The patient has a positive Thessaly test.
Investigations:
X-rays of the right knee were obtained and demonstrate moderate osteoarthritis with joint space narrowing in the medial compartment.
Assessment:
Right knee osteoarthritis.
Plan:
- Discussed conservative management options, including weight loss, activity modification, and physical therapy.
- Prescribed a course of physical therapy to improve range of motion and strengthen the muscles around the knee.
- Recommended the use of a knee brace for support during activities.
- Scheduled a follow-up appointment in six weeks to assess the patient's response to treatment.
- Discussed the possibility of future surgical intervention, such as a total knee replacement, if conservative measures fail.