KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS CLINIC
About the Knee Osteoarthritis Clinic
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative or “wear and tear” type of arthritis. It causes joint pain, swelling and stiffness. The disease may affect any joint in the body, but it is most common in the knee and for those over 50. Knee osteoarthritis usually worsens over time and can make it hard to do everyday activities, such as walking or climbing stairs.
The Knee Osteoarthritis Clinic was established to provide patients with a confirmed diagnosis and to develop a personalized and thorough non-operative treatment plan to improve knee function and quality of life.
We will work with you to establish a treatment plan that will best suit your needs. Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are many treatment options to help people manage pain and stay active.
How do I Access the Clinic?
You will need a referral from your family physician to access the sport medicine physicians in the Knee Osteoarthritis Clinic. Once we receive the referral, we will contact you to book an appointment.
Appointments are available from Monday to Friday between 8 am and 4 pm.
Cost for Visits
All visits in the Knee Osteoarthritis Clinic are covered with a valid provincial health care card.
We may recommend treatments and services that are not covered by Alberta Health such as the GLA:D or Joint Effort programs.
First Knee Osteoarthritis Clinic Appointment
Once we receive the referral and your appointment has been booked.
Arrive 15 Minutes Early
Please arrive 15 minute early and check in at the front desk of the University of Calgary Sport Medicine Centre.
Bring Your Healthcare Card
Please bring your Alberta Healthcare Card or health insurance information.
Be Prepared
Be prepared for your appointment to last approximately 60 minutes.
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
The doctor will talk to you about your symptoms and medical history, conduct a physical examination, and possibly order diagnostic tests, such as x-rays or blood tests.
During the physical examination, your doctor will look for inflammation, range of motion, stability, muscle function and areas of tenderness. Be prepared for the appointment to last one hour.
We will work with you to establish a treatment plan that will best suit your needs. Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are many treatment options to help people manage pain and stay active.
Your treatment plan may include:
- Lifestyle modifications (including weight loss or adapted activity).
- Referral to physiotherapy or other community based exercise programs.
- Assistive devices or bracing.
- Topical or oral medications.
- Injection therapies such as Durolane ® and Synvisc ®, platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
- Referral for consideration of a knee replacement surgery if your knee osteoarthritis symptoms are not relieved with conservative treatment.
Contact Us
Sport Medicine Physicians: 403-220-8518
Physiotherapy: 403-220-8232
Orthopedic Surgeons: 403-220-5077