Right Knee injury and stiffness

Given your history of a right knee injury from 1970 and current issues with increased stiffness and limited range of motion, it sounds like you might be dealing with advanced osteoarthritis or possibly other complications related to your past injury. Since you’ve found pain relief with NSAIDs, but are now experiencing changes in stiffness and function, it’s important we consider both symptomatic treatment and possibly consulting with a specialist. First, keep your pain management plan in place, but be cautious about prolonged use of NSAIDs due to potential gastrointestinal or cardiovascular risks, especially at your age. To improve stiffness and mobility, incorporate low-impact exercises into your routine, like swimming or cycling, which can enhance joint function without putting too much strain on the knee. Additionally, consider physical therapy specifically tailored to your condition to maintain joint mobility and muscle strength. Since your symptoms have changed, an updated evaluation by an orthopedic specialist may be warranted to assess for structural changes in the knee, like joint space narrowing or degeneration. They might suggest imaging studies such as an X-ray or MRI to better understand your condition. If conservative treatment doesn’t provide sufficient relief, the specialist might discuss options like corticosteroid injections or evaluate for surgical interventions such as arthroscopy or joint replacement, depending on the severity of degeneration. Meanwhile, maintaining a healthy weight can reduce stress on the joint, and using assistive devices like a cane may help manage daily activities more comfortably. Monitor your symptoms closely, and if you notice rapid changes like swelling, persistent severe pain, or warmth over the knee, seek urgent medical evaluation to rule out acute issues like an infection or significant injury exacerbation.