Zehr Center for Orthopaedics

06/23/2026

Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is sometimes referred to as wear and tear arthritis. Osteoarthritis of the knee joint is a common problem for many people. It affects the articular cartilage, which is the smooth lining that covers the ends of the leg bones where they meet to form the knee joint. Articular cartilage decreases friction in the knee joint. Beneath the cartilage is a layer of bone. When the articular cartilage wears away, the bone below is uncovered and rubs against bone. Small outgrowths may form in the joint. These are commonly called bone spurs.

Knee osteoarthritis causes
Years of repeated strain on the knee can cause knee osteoarthritis. Abnormal movement and alignment of the knee caused by ligament tears, meniscal injuries, or fractures of the joint surfaces can lead to wear and tear on the joint surfaces. Genetics may make some people prone to developing knee osteoarthritis. Obesity is linked to knee osteoarthritis.

Knee osteoarthritis development
The condition develops slowly over several years with pain, swelling, and stiffening of the knee being the main symptoms. The pain is usually worse after activity and as the condition progresses it can interfere with your daily life, even affecting your sleep patterns.

Knee osteoarthritis diagnosis
Your doctor will base his diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis on your medical history and an examination. X-rays can help in the diagnosis. They will also help your doctor rule out other problems. An MRI may be necessary to assist your doctor in his diagnosis. Finally, arthroscopy may be necessary to actually look inside the knee and see if the joint surfaces are beginning to show wear and tear.

You may qualify for a same-day outpatient knee arthroscopy at Seaside Surgery Center in Naples, FL. This world-class facility was designed specifically for outpatient total joint replacement. Imagine having your knee replacement surgery performed by the best knee surgeon, Dr. Robert Zehr, and going home the same day to recover in the comfort of your home, surrounded by friends and family.

06/20/2026

We have just learned of the sudden, unexpected passing of our former orthopaedic nurse, Karla Lengacher, RN. Karla was a vibrant, joyful addition to our ZCO family for many years. We will miss her dearly.

06/20/2026

We have just learned of the sudden, unexpected passing of our former orthopaedic nurse, Karla Lengacher, RN. Karla was a vibrant, joyful addition to our ZCO family for many years, we will miss her dearly.

06/18/2026

Leafy greens are surprisingly beneficial for bone health, thanks to their rich content of bone-friendly nutrients. But is there one leafy green that’s a cut above the rest?

Discover the best leafy green for bone health, according to a registered dietitian. This nutritious vegetable is packed with calcium, vitamin K, and more.

06/16/2026

When should you get a hip replacement?

When to get a hip replacement is a question always in the back of the mind of patients suffering from hip pain caused by hip osteoarthritis.

06/13/2026

Go, Linda, go!

06/11/2026

It's a long way from the operating rooms yet, but still a fascinating idea. Would you fancy a 3-D printed bone?

Demonstrated in rabbits, the 3-D printer might someday print bone grafts directly onto fractures, complete with antibiotics to ease healing.

06/10/2026

Voting begins TODAY! You can vote as often as you like, through June 24. Thank you for your vote!

06/06/2026

We love happy knees!

06/04/2026

There are ways you can slow and prevent bone loss, even if you have osteoporosis. Certain lifestyle and dietary habits in the early stages of bone loss can help prevent further bone loss. Some medications can also help reverse severe cases of bone loss.

Building bone density includes getting calcium and vitamin D and doing resistance training. Postmenopausal people have a high risk of low bone density.