- Medical history and physical examination: Your knee specialist in Singapore will ask about your symptoms, when they started, and how they affect your daily activities. They will also examine your knee, checking for swelling, tenderness, range of motion, and stability.
- X-rays: These images show the bones in your knee and can reveal joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and other changes associated with arthritis. X-rays are often the first imaging test performed to assess knee arthritis.
- MRI scan: This detailed imaging may be recommended if more information is needed about the soft tissues in your knee, including cartilage, ligaments, and meniscus. An MRI can provide a clearer picture of cartilage damage than X-rays.
- Blood tests: These may be ordered if rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory conditions are suspected. Blood tests can help identify specific markers that indicate autoimmune or inflammatory types of arthritis.
- Joint aspiration: In some cases, a small sample of fluid may be drawn from your knee joint using a thin needle. This fluid can be tested for signs of infection, inflammation, or crystal deposits that might indicate specific types of arthritis.
DR. ONG KEE LEONG
Knee Arthritis Treatment in Singapore
Knee arthritis is a common condition that causes joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It can make everyday tasks like walking, climbing stairs, or rising from a chair increasingly difficult. Over time, the condition can worsen, affecting a person’s quality of life. Understanding what causes knee arthritis, how it is diagnosed, and the treatment options available in Singapore can help individuals manage their symptoms and maintain function.
Book AppointmentWhat is Knee Arthritis?
Knee arthritis refers to the inflammation and degeneration of the cartilage in the knee joint. Cartilage acts as a cushion between the bones, allowing smooth movement. When it breaks down, the bones may rub against each other, causing pain, swelling, and limited motion. This condition often develops gradually and can affect one or both knees.
Knee Arthritis Treatment in Singapore
Non-Surgical Treatment
Non-surgical treatments are often the first approach for managing knee arthritis symptoms and can provide relief for many patients.
- Physiotherapy: A structured exercise programme can help strengthen the muscles around your knee, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
- Steroid injections: Corticosteroid injections directly into your knee joint can provide temporary pain relief and reduce inflammation. These injections can be particularly helpful during flare-ups of symptoms.
Surgical Treatment
Surgical options may be considered when non-surgical treatments no longer provide adequate symptom relief or when arthritis significantly limits your daily activities.
- Knee arthroscopy: This minimally invasive procedure uses a small camera to examine and treat problems inside your knee joint. Damaged cartilage or loose fragments can be removed to reduce pain and catching sensations.
- Partial knee replacement: This procedure replaces only the damaged portion of your knee joint while preserving healthy cartilage and bone. It’s suitable when arthritis affects only one compartment of your knee.
- Total knee replacement: This surgery replaces the entire knee joint with artificial components made of metal and plastic. It’s typically recommended for advanced arthritis when other treatments haven’t provided sufficient relief.
- High tibial osteotomy: This procedure involves cutting and repositioning the shin bone to shift weight away from the damaged part of your knee. It may be suitable for younger patients with arthritis affecting only one side of the knee.
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Types of Knee Arthritis
There are three main types of knee arthritis, each with different underlying causes.
Osteoarthritis
This is the most common type, often called “wear-and-tear” arthritis. It occurs when the cartilage gradually breaks down over time due to normal use and ageing.
Rheumatoid arthritis
This is an autoimmune condition where your body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of your joints. It typically affects both knees and often involves other joints throughout your body.
Post-traumatic arthritis
This type develops following a knee injury, such as a fracture, ligament tear, or meniscus damage. The arthritis may appear months or years after the original injury occurred.
Why Do Patients Choose Dr Ong Kee Leong?
- Dr. Ong Is Passionate In Sports, Giving Him A Deep Understanding Of Sports-Related Injuries And How They Can Be Treated
- Personalised And Professional Approach To Deliver High-Quality Orthopaedic Care Based On The Most Up-To-Date Literature
- Detailed Aftercare Plan To Ensure Smooth, Long-Term Recovery
- Fellowship Trained Surgeon With 15 Years Of Experience In Orthopaedic Conditions
- Problem-Oriented, Well-Organised and Individualized Treatment Plans Catered To Your Specific Needs
- Specialist In The Management Of Sports Injuries And Degenerative Conditions Of The Shoulder And Knee Joints
- Knowledgeable And Pleasant Clinical Staff To Assist You With Your Every Need Detailed Aftercare Plan To Ensure
- Our Care Is Conveniently Accessible At Mount Elizabeth Novena and Farrer Park Hospital
- Minimal Waiting Time For Initial Consultation
- Assistance With Medical Claims (e.g. Medisave & Integrated Shield Plans)
About Dr. Ong Kee Leong
Senior Consultant, MBBS (Singapore), MMed (Ortho), FRCSEd (Ortho)
Dr Ong Kee Leong is a senior consultant orthopaedic surgeon with subspecialty training in shoulder, knee, and arthroscopic sports surgery.
- Completed a fellowship in Germany, gaining focused, hands-on exposure to complex joint conditions beyond the scope of general orthopaedic practice.
- Served as Director of Sports Service at Changi General Hospital, managing a wide range of sports-related injuries in both recreational athletes and national-level competitors before entering private practice.
- Subspecialty focus on shoulder and knee conditions, including arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery.
Hospital & Clinic Affiliations
Dr Ong practises at a clinic in Singapore with access to accredited hospital facilities for surgical procedures. Patients have access to diagnostic imaging (X-ray, MRI, and ultrasound), day surgery facilities for arthroscopic procedures, and structured rehabilitation services.
Please contact the clinic directly for the current practice address, nearest MRT station, and details of affiliated surgical facilities.
Patient Care Philosophy
Dr Ong’s clinical approach is grounded in a single principle: exercise and sports are highly beneficial for long-term health. This reflects a genuine belief that physical activity is central to long-term health, and that the goal of orthopaedic care is to return you to the activities that matter to you, not simply to resolve your imaging findings.
In practice, this means prioritising joint preservation wherever possible. Rather than moving quickly to joint replacement or highly invasive procedures, the focus is on treatments that protect and restore the body’s natural structures.
Every plan is shaped by what you want to do with your body, whether that is returning to competitive sport, running at weekends, or simply walking without pain.
Beyond acute treatment, Dr Ong incorporates injury prevention and load management guidance into his consultations. Understanding why an injury occurred, and how to modify training to reduce the risk of recurrence, is part of the long-term care approach.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How quickly does knee arthritis progress?
The progression of knee arthritis varies greatly between individuals, with some people experiencing gradual changes over many years while others may notice more rapid deterioration. Factors such as your age, activity level, weight, and the type of arthritis all influence how quickly the condition advances.
Can I still exercise with knee arthritis?
Yes, appropriate exercise is actually beneficial for knee arthritis as it helps maintain joint mobility and strengthens supporting muscles. Low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, and walking are generally well-tolerated, though you should avoid high-impact sports or activities that cause significant pain.
When should I consider surgery for my knee arthritis in Singapore?
Surgery is typically considered when your pain significantly interferes with daily activities, sleep, or quality of life, and when non-surgical treatments no longer provide adequate relief. The decision also depends on your overall health, age, and personal goals for activity level.
Will my knee arthritis affect both knees?
Knee arthritis can affect just one knee or both knees, depending on the underlying cause. Osteoarthritis may develop differently in each knee based on factors like previous injuries or how you use your legs, while rheumatoid arthritis typically affects joints symmetrically.
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(Please ask for Dr Ong Kee Leong)
our clinics
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Mt Elizabeth Novena
- 38 Irrawaddy Road #06-59/60/61 Mt Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre Singapore 329563
- klong@sog.sg
- (65) 6884 6788
- (Ask for Dr Ong)
- (65) 9652 5022
-
Mon – Fri : 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sat : 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
other practice locations
Farrer Park Hospital
- 1 Farrer Park Station Road #14-06 Connexion Singapore 217562
- klong@sog.sg
- (65) 6884 6788
- (Ask for Dr Ong)
- (65) 9652 5022
-
Mon – Fri : 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sat : 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Mt Alvernia Medical Centre
- 820 Thomson Road #07-53 Mt Alvernia Medical Centre D Singapore 574623
- klong@sog.sg
- (65) 6884 6788
- (Ask for Dr Ong)
- (65) 9652 5022
-
Mon – Fri : 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sat : 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
"Moving your body the way nature intended is a freedom not well appreciated until it is lost. We are passionate about getting you back in the game, and staying in the game. Our team is fully committed to returning you to the life and activities you love."
Dr. Ong Kee Leong
Diagnostic Methods
When to See an Orthopaedic Surgeon in Singapore
You should consider seeing an orthopaedic surgeon if knee pain persists despite rest or home care, interferes with your daily activities, or causes instability when walking. Early consultation is also advisable if you experience frequent swelling, reduced range of motion, or symptoms that gradually worsen over time.
An orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist in Singapore can diagnose the cause of your symptoms, recommend suitable treatment options, and help prevent further joint damage through timely intervention.
Causes and Risk Factors of Knee Arthritis
Several factors can contribute to the development of knee arthritis, though it often occurs due to a combination of reasons.
Age
The cartilage in your knee naturally wears down over time, making arthritis more common as you get older. Most people over 65 show some signs of knee arthritis, though not everyone experiences symptoms.
Previous knee injuries
Injuries such as torn ligaments, meniscus tears, or fractures can damage the knee joint and increase your risk of developing arthritis later in life. Even injuries that occurred years ago can contribute to arthritis development.
Excess weight
Carrying extra weight puts additional stress on your knee joints with every step you take. This increased pressure can accelerate the breakdown of cartilage over time.
Repetitive stress (Sports)
Jobs or activities that involve repeated kneeling, squatting, or heavy lifting can put ongoing strain on your knee joints. Sports that involve frequent running, jumping, or pivoting may also increase your risk.
Family history
Arthritis can run in families, suggesting that genetics may play a role in your likelihood of developing the condition. If your parents or siblings have arthritis, you may be at higher risk.
Joint alignment problems
If your knees are naturally knocked-kneed or bow-legged, this can create uneven pressure distribution across the joint. Over time, this uneven wear can lead to arthritis development.
Symptoms of Knee Arthritis
The symptoms of knee arthritis can vary from person to person and may develop gradually over time.
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Joint pain
You may feel a deep aching or sharp pain in your knee, particularly during or after movement. The pain often worsens with activity and may improve with rest.
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Morning stiffness
Your knee may feel particularly stiff and difficult to move when you first wake up or after sitting for long periods. This stiffness typically eases as you start moving around.
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Swelling
Your knee may appear larger than usual or feel puffy around the joint. The swelling may come and go, often becoming more noticeable after periods of activity.
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Reduced range of motion
You may find it harder to fully bend or straighten your knee. Activities like squatting, kneeling, or climbing stairs may become increasingly difficult.
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Grinding or clicking sounds
You might hear or feel a grinding, clicking, or popping sensation when you move your knee. This occurs when the roughened cartilage surfaces rub against each other.
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Weakness or instability
Your knee may feel wobbly or give way, particularly when walking on uneven surfaces or changing direction. The muscles around your knee may also feel weaker.
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Weather sensitivity
Many people notice their knee pain and stiffness worsen during cold or damp weather conditions.
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