Knee pain can be debilitating, affecting your daily activities and quality of life.

Fortunately, there are several non-surgical treatments that can help alleviate knee pain and improve mobility.

In this blog, Mykare Health will explore some of the most effective non-surgical treatments for knee pain to help you make informed decisions about your care.

Best Non Surgical Treatments

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is a cornerstone of non-surgical knee pain treatment. A physical therapist can design a personalised exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.

Exercises may include stretching, strengthening, and low-impact activities like swimming or cycling.

Weight Management

Excess weight puts additional stress on your knees, exacerbating pain and potentially leading to further joint damage. Losing weight through a combination of diet and exercise can help reduce the load on your knees and alleviate pain.

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for reducing knee pain and preventing further joint damage.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. These medications are available over-the-counter and can be effective for managing mild to moderate knee pain.

NSAIDs can provide temporary relief from knee pain, but they should be used with caution to avoid potential side effects.

Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroid injections can provide short-term relief from knee pain by reducing inflammation. These injections are typically administered by a healthcare professional and can be effective for managing pain associated with conditions like osteoarthritis.

Corticosteroid injections offer temporary relief and should be used in conjunction with other treatments for long-term management.

Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Hyaluronic acid injections, also known as viscosupplementation, involve injecting a lubricating substance into the knee joint to improve mobility and reduce pain.

This treatment is often used for individuals with osteoarthritis. Hyaluronic acid injections can provide relief for several months, but the effectiveness varies from person to person.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

PRP therapy involves injecting a concentration of your own platelets into the knee joint to promote healing and reduce pain.

This treatment is still being studied, but early results are promising for certain conditions.PRP therapy is an emerging treatment with potential benefits, but more research is needed to establish its long-term effectiveness.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain. Some studies suggest that acupuncture can be effective for managing knee pain, particularly in combination with other treatments.

Acupuncture may offer pain relief for some individuals, but its effectiveness varies and should be considered as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

TENS therapy uses low-voltage electrical currents to stimulate the nerves and reduce pain. This treatment can be done at home with a TENS unit and is often used in conjunction with other therapies.

TENS therapy can provide temporary pain relief and is a non-invasive option for managing knee pain.

Bracing and Supports

Knee braces and supports can help stabilise the joint, reduce pain, and prevent further injury.

There are various types of braces available, including hinged, compression, and patellar stabilising braces.

Bracing can provide support and pain relief, but it should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Heat and Cold Therapy

Applying heat or cold to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation. Heat therapy, such as warm compresses or heating pads, can relax muscles and improve blood flow.

Cold therapy, such as ice packs, can numb the area and reduce swelling. Heat and cold therapy can be effective for managing knee pain and should be used as needed for comfort.