Radiologic Findings Are Not the Whole Story – A Case of Knee Osteoarthritis Without Pain

by Son PMR(Physical medicine & Rehabilitation ) & Chiropractic Clinic in Seoul

At Son Cheolho Rehabilitation Clinic, we frequently encounter cases where radiologic findings appear quite severe, yet the patient reports minimal or no symptoms. Here is a representative case that reminds us why imaging should be interpreted in the full clinical context.

A woman in her 70s visited our clinic for routine follow-up. She reported no significant knee pain and was functioning well in daily life — walking, standing for extended periods, and climbing stairs without discomfort.

However, her recent knee X-rays showed moderate to advanced degenerative changes in both knees. There was clear joint space narrowing, osteophyte formation, and subchondral sclerosis, which are typical radiologic features of osteoarthritis.

Importantly, she had no history of bursitis or regenerative injections such as PDRN. Her only ongoing treatment was periodic hyaluronic acid (Hyalgan) injections for joint lubrication and maintenance. Despite the radiographic changes, she remained highly functional without the need for stronger interventions.

Key Takeaways from This Case

  1. Imaging is a tool—not the decision-maker.
    Even when X-rays reveal significant degeneration, if the patient has no pain and maintains function, aggressive treatment is not necessarily warranted.

  2. Symptoms guide the treatment plan.
    The patient's functional status, pain level, and lifestyle goals should be prioritized over imaging findings alone.

  3. Proactive management can preserve quality of life.
    Regular hyaluronic acid injections and lifestyle monitoring can help maintain joint function and delay or avoid more invasive treatments.

Conclusion
This case reminds us that radiologic findings must be interpreted in the context of the patient's actual experience. At Son Cheolho Rehabilitation Clinic, we strive to make patient-centered decisions, using imaging as a guide but not as the sole basis for treatment. Our goal is to preserve quality of life through thoughtful, individualized care.

👍Consultation and Appointment Information

Son PMR & Chiropractic Clinic( 2nd floor, 229-1 Gucheonmyun-Ro, Gangdongu, Seoul, South Korea) 

by  Dr Son MD & DC 
Contact: 02-482-8875 in Seoul( +82-2-482-8875)




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