Knee Arthritis

Don’t let knee arthritis keep you from walking comfortably, staying active, or enjoying the activities you love. At Compass Pain and Wellness, we combine world-class diagnostics with advanced regenerative treatments designed to address the root cause of knee pain—not just the symptoms.
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Overview

What Is Knee Arthritis?

Knee arthritis is a degenerative condition in which the cartilage within the knee joint gradually breaks down, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and pain. The knee joint relies on smooth cartilage surfaces to allow the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap) to glide smoothly during movement. When this cartilage wears away, bones may rub together, causing irritation and joint inflammation.

The most common type of knee arthritis is osteoarthritis, which develops gradually as the joint experiences wear and tear over time. However, other forms such as rheumatoid arthritis or post-traumatic arthritis may also affect the knee. According to the Cleveland Clinic, knee osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage in the joint deteriorates, resulting in pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.
¹https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/5599-knee-arthritis

Expert Analysis

Understanding Knee Arthritis

The knee is one of the largest and most heavily used joints in the body. It absorbs significant force during activities such as walking, running, climbing stairs, and standing. When arthritis develops, the protective cartilage that cushions the joint gradually deteriorates, which leads to increased friction between the bones and inflammation within the joint capsule.

Patients with knee arthritis often experience pain during movement, stiffness after periods of rest, swelling, and decreased range of motion. Many people notice difficulty with activities such as walking long distances, climbing stairs, kneeling, or standing up from a seated position. As the condition progresses, bone spurs may develop and joint stability may decline. If left untreated, knee arthritis can significantly affect mobility, quality of life, and overall joint function.

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Triggers

Knee arthritis most commonly develops as a result of degenerative changes that occur with aging and repeated mechanical stress on the joint. Over time, the cartilage in the knee gradually loses its ability to absorb shock and protect the joint surfaces, making the knee more vulnerable to inflammation and damage.

Several factors can accelerate the development of knee arthritis. Previous knee injuries such as ligament tears or meniscus damage can increase stress on the joint. Repetitive activities that place heavy strain on the knee—such as running, jumping, or occupations that require prolonged kneeling—may also contribute. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases explains that osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage gradually breaks down, leading to joint pain and stiffness.
²https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/osteoarthritis

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Differential Diagnosis

Knee pain is not always caused by arthritis, which is why accurate diagnosis is critical before beginning treatment. Symptoms of knee arthritis can sometimes resemble other conditions such as meniscus tears, ligament injuries, patellofemoral pain syndrome, bursitis, tendonitis, or referred pain from the hip or spine.

At Compass Pain and Wellness, we believe that precise diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. Our board-certified physicians use advanced diagnostic tools including flexion and extension X-rays, structure-specific diagnostic ultrasound exams, MRI imaging, nerve conduction velocity testing, bloodwork, and targeted diagnostic injections to determine exactly which structures within the knee are responsible for a patient’s pain. By identifying the true cause of symptoms, we can develop a treatment plan that targets the root problem rather than simply masking discomfort.

Solutions

Treating knee arthritis requires reducing inflammation within the joint while supporting the health of the cartilage, ligaments, and surrounding tissues. At Compass Pain and Wellness, we develop personalized treatment plans that combine advanced regenerative medicine, targeted interventional procedures, and supportive therapies designed to restore joint function and reduce pain.

Treatment options may include:

REGENERATIVE TREATMENTS

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Knee Arthritis is one of the most complicated conditions to resolve.

Don’t chance it at a clinic that under-diagnoses and over-treats.

We’ll get you scheduled for a consultation with a diagnostic physician right away.

 

What Makes Compass Different

Many people with knee arthritis are told their only long-term solution is medication or joint replacement surgery. At Compass Pain and Wellness, we believe patients deserve more options. Our care begins with world-class diagnostic medicine, allowing us to identify exactly which structures within the knee joint are contributing to pain.

Once the diagnosis is clear, we combine advanced regenerative medicine with a comprehensive multidisciplinary approach. Treatments such as platelet-rich plasma and cellular therapy are delivered with precise ultrasound guidance to stimulate structural repair within the joint. Patients also benefit from coordinated care that includes physical therapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, and advanced healing technologies like photobiomodulation, PEMF, and shockwave therapy—all designed to support long-term recovery and improved joint function.

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What Makes Compass Different

Successfully treating intercostal neuralgia requires more than simply prescribing pain medication—it requires identifying exactly where and why the nerve is being irritated. At Compass Pain and Wellness, our care begins with world-class diagnostic medicine. Our physicians take the time to listen to each patient’s story and perform a comprehensive evaluation using advanced imaging and diagnostic techniques to locate the precise source of nerve compression or inflammation.

Once the diagnosis is confirmed, we offer some of the most advanced treatment options available. Our physicians specialize in regenerative medicine, including platelet-rich plasma and cellular therapy, which are delivered with precise ultrasound and fluoroscopic guidance to support tissue healing. For nerve conditions specifically, we also perform nerve hydrodissection, a minimally invasive technique that can release nerves trapped by scar tissue or surrounding structures. Combined with our multidisciplinary team—including physical therapy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, massage therapy, and advanced technologies like photobiomodulation, PEMF, and shockwave therapy—patients receive comprehensive care designed to restore function and relieve pain.

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Outlook

Living with knee arthritis can make everyday activities like walking, exercising, or climbing stairs painful and frustrating. The encouraging news is that when the underlying causes of joint inflammation are properly identified, effective treatments are available that can significantly improve mobility and reduce pain.

At Compass Pain and Wellness, our mission is to combine the world’s best diagnostic medicine with advanced regenerative and interventional treatments to help patients overcome chronic joint conditions. You don’t have to continue living with persistent knee pain. With the right diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan, lasting relief is possible. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward moving comfortably again.

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Compass Pain And Wellness Locations | Portland

Portland, Oregon

1410 SW Jefferson st.
Portland, OR 97201
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Compass Pain And Wellness Locations | Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, Utah

6360 S 3000 E, Ste 210
Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121
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Testimonials

Hear what our customers are saying

"Now here I am six weeks out and my ability to walk up and down stairs with more confidence and strength has improved greatly."
Brad
"I had meniscus surgery years ago, and the pain never completely went away. After this procedure with Dr. Peterson, I'm pain-free in my knee."
Peter
"It's just unbelievable that such a relatively simple procedure did so much for me. I feel better than ever."
Haleigh
I’m about two months post-procedure and I’m back in the gym, full strength and no pain.
Daniel
"My body feels much better."
Natalia
"Honestly, if it weren't for Compass, I wouldn't be recovered to where I am today."
Rodney
“It's been the first time in 16 years that I've been able to sleep the entire night through."
Andrew
“I am back to work, my productivity is up and I owe it all to Dr. Peterson."
Chris
"Regenerative medicine works for me, where nothing else has worked before"
Laurie
"It's been one of the best things I've done for my knees."
Tamara