Throbbing Knee Pain

What is Osteoarthritis of the Knee?

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can affect the many tissues of the joint. It is by far the most common form of arthritis, affecting more than 32.5 million adults in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. OA is caused by trauma or age-related wear and tear on the joints over time and is most likely to affect weight-bearing joints such as the knees. Injury or overuse, such as knee bending and repetitive stress on a joint, can damage a joint and increase the risk of OA. The risk of developing OA increases with age and is most common from middle age onward. For decades, OA was believed to be a destructive process associated with joint usage and advancing age. We now know that OA is a disease of the entire joint, including bone, cartilage, ligaments, fat, and the tissues lining the joint. OA can degrade cartilage, change bone shape, and cause inflammation, resulting in pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility.

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Osteoarthritis Knee Symptoms

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee primarily affects the cartilage in the knee joint. The gradual wear and tear of the cartilage can lead to various symptoms, with knee pain being a prominent and often early sign. It’s important to note that symptoms can vary in severity from person to person and often develop slowly and worsen over time.

Common Symptoms

Osteoarthritis of the Knee Causes

Knee osteoarthritis is typically the result of wear and tear and the breakdown of cartilage in the knee joint. The cartilage eventually wears down completely, causing your bones to rub together and the connective tissues of the joint to deteriorate. It’s most common in women and patients 60 years or older. However, several risk factors can cause osteoarthritis in the knee, including previous injuries and excessive weight.

Common Causes

  • Genetics
  • Obesity
  • Old age
  • Previous knee injury
  • Repetitive stress on the knee
Take the first step toward a pain-free life!

Are you tired of knee pain holding you back? Take the first step towards getting back to an active life by requesting an appointment at American Knee Pain Centers today!

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Osteoarthritis of the Knee Diagnosis

Diagnosing knee osteoarthritis involves a combination of factors, including reviewing your medical history, a physical examination, and imaging tests. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and risk factors, and examine your knee, looking for tenderness, swelling, warmth, and decreased range of motion. They may also perform specific tests to assess your knee’s stability and function.

Diagnostic Tests

  • X-ray
  • MRI
  • Ultrasound
  • Blood Tests
  • Joint Fusion Analysis

Genicular Artery Embolization

Genicular artery embolization (GAE) allows patients to achieve knee pain relief from osteoarthritis without the need for surgery. It’s a minimally invasive procedure performed by an interventional radiologist that involves reducing or blocking the blood flow to the genicular arteries that supply blood to the knee joint. GAE effectively decreases knee pain and swelling for patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis with patients experiencing results in 1-2 weeks, relief from symptoms for 1-3 years, and an increased range of motion in the knee.

GAE vs. Cortisone Shot

Cortisone shots are commonly used for various joint conditions, including osteoarthritis of the knee. The shot involves injecting a corticosteroid (a powerful anti-inflammatory medication) directly into the affected joint. The goal of cortisone shots is to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain, but their effects are typically temporary, and repeated injections may be needed to provide relief from knee pain and inflammation. GAE provides long-lasting relief for osteoarthritis knee pain for 1-3 years and stops the symptoms instead of just masking them, unlike a cortisone shot which provides only temporary relief for 2-3 months.

GAE vs. Knee Replacement

A knee replacement involves surgically replacing the damaged knee joint with an artificial joint prosthesis. It’s generally recommended for individuals with advanced osteoarthritis or significant joint damage. Knee replacement surgery is a well-established procedure with a high success rate in relieving knee pain, but it’s a more invasive procedure that requires a hospital stay and a longer recovery, including physical therapy and rehabilitation. GAE is a minimally invasive and same-day procedure that requires no hospital stay and a faster recovery time.

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What to Expect from Genicular Artery Embolization

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No hospital stay
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Same day procedure
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Fewer complications
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Short recovery time
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Improved knee function and range of motion
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Reduced knee pain and inflammation
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Symptom improvement for 1 to 3 years

Knee Osteoarthritis Frequently Asked Questions

What is osteoarthritis of the knee?

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It’s a degenerative joint disease that causes the protective cartilage in your knee joints to wear down, leading to pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving.

Is there a cure for osteoarthritis of the knee?

There is no cure for knee osteoarthritis, but there are many effective treatments, such as genicular artery embolization (GAE), that can help manage the symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Can I prevent osteoarthritis of the knee?

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent knee osteoarthritis, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:

  • Maintaining a healthy weight: Losing weight if you are overweight or obese can reduce stress on your joints.
  • Regular exercise: Regular physical activity can help strengthen muscles and protect joints.
  • Avoiding joint injuries: Wear protective gear when playing sports or engaging in activities that could put stress on your joints.
  • Listen to your body: Pay attention to your body and avoid activities that cause pain.

Our Knee Pain Specialists

Our affiliated knee pain specialists in New York and New Jersey are board-certified interventional radiologists committed to alleviating knee pain and improving the quality of life for individuals with osteoarthritis of the knee. From thorough assessments to developing tailored treatment plans, our affiliated specialists work collaboratively with patients to restore mobility, reduce pain, and promote long-term joint health. You can find the following doctors at our New York and New Jersey locations.

Find Relief at Our Knee Pain Centers in NY & NJ

Feeling off-balance with a wobbly knee? At our American Knee Pain Centers in NY & NJ, we specialize in restoring stability to your stride with GAE. We understand that every case of knee instability is unique, and we take a personalized approach to your treatment. Our goal is to help you regain confidence in your knee, so you can get back to the activities you love. Visit any one of our knee pain centers in New York and New Jersey to help you regain control and confidence in your movements.

Queens, NY
28-18 31st Street
Queens, NY 11102
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Harlem, NY
505 East 116th Street Suite 400
Harlem, NY 10029
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Brooklyn, NY
71 Carroll Street
Brooklyn, NY 11231
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West Orange, NJ
347 Mount Pleasant Avenue
West Orange, NJ 07052
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What Our Patients Are Saying

Sheer perfection. The care and expertise and teamwork are the best I have ever experienced. I’m a former nurse and I recognize and give a shout out to the best!!!!
Barbara Murray
Barbara Murray
16:22 02 May 24
First Impressions are lasting impressions! First, the staff are phenomenal! How is it possible that each and every one of them are incredibly kind, caring, professional, personable and treat you like you are THE most important person in the world!? Well, meet this team for an experience that will make you feel valued as a person, not just as a patient. In walks this amazing Doctor and now you understand why his team are the way they are! They regard each other with the utmost respect, and kindness, and they communicate with each other like family. And as a new patient, I had the honor and pleasure to experience excellence in patient care and concern. I am so very grateful to have found a Doctor who is in my opinion perfect with a team who are exceptional! I’m excited for my next visit, honestly! I write this with a great big Smile on my face!
CC
CC
14:57 24 Apr 24
EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT ALL AROUND!!! THANK YOU!!!
Marion Moore
Marion Moore
13:44 17 Apr 24
Excellent, professional, organized and efficient all best describes the service here.
Delsi Cunningham
Delsi Cunningham
17:28 05 Apr 24
Very nice and friendly staff.I was so nervous, they all made me feel relaxed and comfortable.They explained everything to me step by step.
Keith Dickens
Keith Dickens
13:10 02 Apr 24
Excelente servicio es lo mejor que me a pasado gracias a sus buenos tratamiento ya no tengo dolor
The staff are the best. Very elated,with the exceptional care,professionalism, and genuine concern, displayed by all the staff.
Constance Sidberry
Constance Sidberry
03:50 17 Mar 24
I felt very comfortable with him. Excellent bedside manner, proper teaching , and knowledgeable. I highly recommend him!
Jamel Jackson
Jamel Jackson
14:07 27 Feb 24
Yes it was a good place
Carmen Diaz
Carmen Diaz
14:22 20 Feb 24
The absolute BEST Dr!! Detailed, caring & kind! The best medical procedure I’ve ever had from consultation to post procedure, perfect! 10s all around 👏🏽👍🏽👍🏽 many thank yous🙏🏾
Josi W
Josi W
22:04 12 Jan 24
Is good to be with friendly and professional staff at doctor’s offices like this one.
Dr. Joseph Sham and the entire Team were very professional, knowledgeable, informative and had incredible patience with me by answering all my questions and concerns. Great Team…Thank you all! 👍
Marion
Marion
22:17 27 Dec 23
I was treated very well. The staff was very professional and made me feel comfortable. Looking forward to my next visit.
Stephen Lapinsky
Stephen Lapinsky
20:17 20 Dec 23
This experience was great I’m so happy with everything
stephanie suazo
stephanie suazo
22:53 13 Dec 23
Love this Dr and staff. They are all kind courteous and professional with excellent medical care. I would highly recommend them to anyone in need.
Sybil Wilkins
Sybil Wilkins
21:58 28 Nov 23
I love this place stuff is helpful an they all were nice. I had a wonderful experience Dr Shams was great.
Victoria Pacheco
Victoria Pacheco
22:07 17 Nov 23
Professional services
Ricky Mo
Ricky Mo
22:14 15 Nov 23
I like the doctor they were kind of pretty thorough he says that he could help me he found out the filter in my abdomen from the surgery I had in 1996 has been clogging my blood flow for 25 years and that’s causing the swelling at every other doctor told me was lymphedema it was not lymphedema it caused the lymphedema because no other doctor took the time or care enough to find out the reason for my leg swelling this doctor was the only one who finally found out and he’s going to see if you could put a stent inside the filter to open it up and and stop my legs from swelling hopefully this will all go good it hasn’t happened yet but I’ll keep you posted thankful for this docto I just pray and hope that it works otherwise I like the doctor very much
Mitchell Dedios
Mitchell Dedios
21:01 27 Oct 23
Excellent service , good customer service and friendly staff. Thanks
Raysa Polanco
Raysa Polanco
20:54 27 Oct 23
You may likely have to wait. Avoid anxiety and frustration. Schedule extra time for the visit. Allow for personal attention to your care needs once in the examination room. Friendly, nice staff and doctor puts you at ease. Bottom line: worth the wait!
Sisle
Sisle
21:49 26 Oct 23
Excellent service and staff i’ll let you feel relaxing and comfortable
kadine campbell
kadine campbell
21:01 23 Oct 23
I was given good advice about my blood circulation
Gary Jackson
Gary Jackson
17:04 08 Oct 23
Dr. Shams office is amazing. Whitney and Angela were AMAZING. Great sense of humor. Staff is WONDERFUL.
Sara Correa
Sara Correa
21:13 18 Sep 23
Nice office, personnel friendly, & caring, good informative information concerning my care.
Loretta Johnson
Loretta Johnson
21:26 22 Aug 23
Really like this doctor, talks in your language, just over all regular nice person.
Linda Thoomey
Linda Thoomey
22:03 21 Jul 23
I’m very satisfied of my visit for the first time, everyone was concerned about me, and Dr David was very patient to listen to my long health stories, after that He gave me good explanation for my problem, that was great 👍
Claude Jean Pierre
Claude Jean Pierre
22:38 18 Jul 23
Follow up to a procedure. Dr Mobley and his staff are great and always helpful
DanLiza Diehl
DanLiza Diehl
21:25 10 Jul 23
David monkey,MD and the grupo are excellent very kind and helpful.i will return to them.the attention.its very satisfied.thank u ..
Luis Sarria
Luis Sarria
12:16 29 Jun 23
I had a good experience with my procedure and Dr. Mobley’s follow-up calls are great. I’ve never had a doctor who has been so concerned about following up after a procedure to see how I’m doing and if there are any post-procedure problems I may have experienced (which there aren’t). I’d highly recommend Dr. Mobley.
Hey Beej
Hey Beej
16:42 23 Jun 23
Dr Mobley was so helpful, informative and made me feel secure in making my future medical plan. Supportive and kind. Highly recommended.
Amanda L Browder
Amanda L Browder
15:57 23 Jun 23
Doctor was very thorough. Explaining what the procedure is all about. Tell me what I could realistically expect. Couldn’t have asked for a better consultation. Highly recommended if you have a prostate issue
John Buric
John Buric
16:26 15 Jun 23
I was very pleased and satisfied on how Dr. David Mobley examined me and explained everything on what I need to know regarding my condition. He’s very professional and knowledgeable in all aspects of his profession. I would highly recommend him to my other friends!
Celine Parcon
Celine Parcon
23:16 07 Jun 23
Dr Shams was very attentive and explained everything in detail. The staff was very nice, the staff/nurse were all so very helpful, It was a Monday morning and I didn’t expect such happy staff.
Stacy Lebeau
Stacy Lebeau
21:22 06 Jun 23
He puts his patients before himself, returning calls and e-mails quickly. Not only is he kind and considerate, he is an excellent physician. I had to have a procedure that requires me to be awake, and he talked me through it and kept me at ease. If I could give him more stars, I would.
Super friendly, tentative, once in the procedure rm the sx staff made you feel comfortable, easy,+ answered all questions. David mobley, MD answered all my questions, very informative, caring. I felt confident in his care
Thais Bini
Thais Bini
21:22 30 May 23
Great doctor. Everyone is so kind and caring. Great place to go
Joan Jurica
Joan Jurica
14:46 30 May 23
Good service!
Veronika Shopina
Veronika Shopina
21:09 24 May 23
There is a friendly atmosphere, fast medical attention and an advanced medical equipment !!!The Staff is very knowledgeable and the best care possibly !!!100 % Satisfied !!!
Cruz Figueroa
Cruz Figueroa
03:06 08 May 23
Whole staff was very friendly and professional. I feel confident that I came to the right place for treatment.
Rudy Padilla
Rudy Padilla
02:08 13 Apr 23
The best in Astoria I recommend Dr mobley and staff 100 percent
michaela1951
michaela1951
21:25 30 Mar 23
Knowledgeable , experienced, great bed side manners
mohamed hamed
mohamed hamed
10:09 30 Mar 23
I am pleased w/my experience @ endovascular. I hope they can save my foot.
Margo A Williams
Margo A Williams
19:19 29 Mar 23
This has been the best medical experience I’ve had in over thirty years. I was nervous to have a procedure after only knowing about my condition a year ago. They made this process so easy for me that I’m in shock that I had no pain, no discomfort thanks to an excellent doctor and professional staff! Thank you all and best of luck to your practice.
Stacey Marius
Stacey Marius
14:16 29 Mar 23
The doctor was very nice and professional. He explained the tests that I need and why I need them.
Judith AndersonNeal
Judith AndersonNeal
22:12 27 Mar 23
This was the best experience I have had in such a long time and I have had quite a few procedures in the past both in patient and out including the procedure I was currently present for. No other surgeon has been so kind, transparent, and gentle. Not only did he personally come out beforehand to provide me with education on my procedure, but he talked me through every step of the way and made me feel so comfortable and relaxed. Not to mention his amazing staff! Despite being extremely nervous they kept me smiling and laughing throughout the whole process. 10/10 would recommend. Thank you so much guys!!
Riah L.
Riah L.
13:49 22 Mar 23
Excellent bedside manners and the procedure was a breeze.
sen-pei hsia
sen-pei hsia
18:26 20 Mar 23
Los mejores/ the best💖🙏
Ruthy Ochoa
Ruthy Ochoa
04:17 03 Mar 23
Excellent, Patience, don’t Rush you to be finished. The Doctor explains everything and answers your questions. I would Recommend Dr.Sham service anytime, they are. Great!
Debra Farmer
Debra Farmer
00:16 01 Mar 23
I went with my mom who just had a hip surgery. The whole team was very caring, nice and very professional. I did appreciate that the surgeon took the time to explain to me what was wrong with my mom’s arm and what he did to fix it.
mouna khalyat
mouna khalyat
14:37 24 Feb 23
Very good and very responsive.
James Young
James Young
19:33 22 Feb 23
Although I didn’t meet with the doctor, the receptionist, assistant and nurse were great.
Theresa Gaines
Theresa Gaines
13:25 13 Feb 23
Every thing and the process are being done properly ..Terissa you are very Carey ..thank you so much every body are very polite and very professional.. Thank you so much to Dr.Mobley..God blessed you all .🙏🙏🙏👍
Remigio Ruda
Remigio Ruda
03:28 31 Jan 23
Very knowledgeable, personable and professional. I came to Dr. Mobley to correct another surgeons work and I was pleased with the outcome. There is a Hispanic woman that runs things in the O.R.She is great! The whole staff is wonderful and caring.Highly recommend
Lakesha Kingdom
Lakesha Kingdom
15:57 17 Jan 23
I had a wonderful PA take care of me, & the nurses were very sweet. I was happy with my visit
Aurora Anello
Aurora Anello
19:20 10 Jan 23
Everything always goes well.staff are very caring.
Lillian Rodriguez
Lillian Rodriguez
19:00 11 Dec 22
Excellent Doctor he explains the procedure process so that it is understandable and comfortable for the patient!
T. J.
T. J.
14:48 06 Dec 21
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Take the first step toward a pain-free life!

Don’t let knee pain limit your life any longer! Request an appointment with our specialist to start your pain-free journey today.