Non-surgical methods for treating knee pain offer a variety of choices to assist individuals in relieving discomfort and enhancing their quality of life. Whether stemming from aging, injury or underlying health issues, knee pain can significantly impact routines. Thankfully, there exists less-invasive methods that can reduce pain, improve movement, and support recovery. This article explores non-surgical methods examining practices like physical therapy, pain management techniques, braces, lifestyle adjustments and alternative therapies. Learn how these approaches can bring relief, boost knee joint comfort and aid in reclaiming your desired lifestyle.
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There are several types of medicines that can help alleviate the discomfort linked to knee pain, such as over-the-counter medications and those prescribed by doctors. Knee pain can start off mildly and actually get worse over time. The choice of medication used to address knee pain will depend on the cause and severity of the pain. Knee pain can stem from reasons like overuse, arthritis, Baker’s cyst, joint infections, bursitis, torn cartilage, strains or sprains.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – People with mild to moderate knee pain might opt for over the counter medications like anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen to relieve discomfort. NSAIDs help reduce swelling and manage pain. Over the counter versions of NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (known as Motrin and Advil) and naproxen sodium (commonly referred to as Aleve) are accessible for treating mild to pain.
Acetaminophen – Acetaminophen is a medication that can be used to alleviate both pain and fever. It is commonly taken for managing osteoarthritis-related knee pain. Additionally, acetaminophen can be useful in handling forms of mild to moderate discomfort.
Prescription medicines – A person suffering from more intense pain may need a stronger medication, which their doctor can provide. These could be NSAIDs with a higher dosage, or COX-2 inhibitors, also known as coxibs. Some examples of NSAIDs that are prescribed are high dose ibuprofen, high dose naproxen, and diclofenac.
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Upon receiving a diagnosis of a knee condition, it might be necessary to make some lifestyle changes. Howeverm this doesn’t necessarily mean your mobility will be limited. In fact, the adjustments you make to alleviate discomfort and stiffness could have benefits, such as boosting your energy levels and reducing the risk of health issues.
Take control of you your weight – Obesity can negatively impact bone and joint health. Shedding pounds can alleviate pressure on your joints to potentially slow down joint degeneration. Losing weight may pose challenges when dealing with mobility, but an orthopaedic surgeon can assist you in setting realistic goals and creating a plan to achieve them.
Stay fit – Physical activity offers more than just weight management benefits. It helps build strength and flexibility, reduces pain and combats arthritis symptoms. Depending on the severity of your pain, engaging in gym sessions or classes might be challenging. However, familiarizing yourself with exercises that relax muscles improve blood circulation and promote movement can help alleviate discomfort.
Maintaining a healthy diet – Incorporating more anti-inflammatory foods and supplements into your eating habits can effectively alleviate chronic joint discomfort. Omega 3 fatty acids present in items like fish, chia seeds, soybeans and walnuts have the potential to diminish inflammation thereby providing relief from pain and stiffness.
Avoid stress – Psychological stress can trigger a response that compromises the immune system resulting in heightened inflammation. This heightened inflammation may exacerbate discomfort during times of significant life changes such as relocation, loss, financial challenges or even the anticipation of a vacation. To combat stress levels exploring practices, like meditation, yoga or other relaxation techniques could be beneficial.
A knee brace is sometimes used to help manage the discomfort linked to knee osteoarthritis. This kind of brace helps shift weight from the affected part of the knee potentially easing pain and enhancing mobility. Various types of braces are available for treating knee arthritis; for instance, there is a specific brace that redirects weight from the area under strain.
Osteoarthritis is commonly seen in older individuals. The damage caused by this condition can resulting in knee misalignment that may cause a bowed knee appearance.
As osteoarthritis develops, joint misalignment may worsen. Wearing a knee brace can lessen pressure on the region. Additionally, a knee brace can offer increased stability during standing or movement particularly when there’s a sensation that the knee might buckle.
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Physiotherapy is geared towards simplifying tasks and activities such as walking, climbing stairs or getting in and out of bed. Knee pain treatments provided by physiotherapists aim to address movement issues related to knee pain and discomfort. Typically, you may only need a few sessions with a physiotherapist.
Exercise plays a role in physiotherapy encompassing stretching, core strengthening and walking routines. Your physiotherapist can guide you through exercises that target knee pain relief and enhance your mobility. Moreover, you will learn exercises that can be practiced conveniently at home.
Working closely with your physiotherapist a personalized care plan tailored to your condition and individual needs will be developed. Objectives may involve reducing pain or swelling while enhancing flexibility, strength, balance and endurance.
When it comes to treating knee osteoarthritis, injections are not typically the first choice. Orthopaedic surgeons may primarily suggest options such as weight management, physical therapy to strengthen the legs and core muscles exercise to improve flexibility, techniques for managing pain through mind body practices using topical anti inflammatory creams and taking nonsteroidal anti inflammatory medications.
Initially your doctor will administer an injection to numb the knee area. They might also remove any fluid from the joint using a needle. Following this procedure, a pain relief injection will be given near the kneecap.
Non-surgical methods for addressing knee pain have proven effective in alleviating pain and enhancing mobility. These approaches encompass weight loss efforts, physical therapy sessions, NSAIDs or steroid injections as regenerative medicine techniques. It is advisable to collaborate with a specialist to devise a non-surgical treatment strategy tailored to each patient’s needs.
At The Orthopaedic & Pain Practice, our team of is dedicated to helping you with your knee pain concerns. We understand the importance of seeking help for issues especially when it involves crucial joints like the knees. Our experienced orthopaedic surgeon focuses on diagnosing and treating a variety of knee conditions. It’s important to consult with a knee specialist to accurately identify the cause of your knee discomfort and create a treatment plan that suits your needs. Whether you’re dealing with pain, an injury or age related knee problems, our skilled team is here to offer care and assist you in improving mobility and reducing pain. Begin your journey towards better knee health by scheduling a consultation at The Orthopaedic & Pain Practice.
Non-surgical treatments for knee joint pain encompass various approaches such as physical therapy, medications, injections, and lifestyle modifications to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Physical therapy involves targeted exercises and stretches that aim to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint, enhance flexibility, and improve overall joint stability.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen, and topical creams are commonly used to manage knee pain and inflammation.
Injections such as corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid can provide localized pain relief and lubrication to the knee joint, reducing discomfort and improving mobility.
Yes, lifestyle modifications like maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and adopting joint-friendly activities can play a significant role in managing knee pain.
Results vary depending on the treatment method and individual factors. Some patients experience relief within a few weeks, while others may take longer.
Non-surgical treatments generally have minimal risks, but some individuals may experience side effects such as allergic reactions to medications or temporary discomfort from injections.
Non-surgical treatments are typically recommended as the initial approach for managing knee pain. They may be suitable for individuals who want to avoid surgery or need to improve their overall knee joint health before considering surgical options.
Dr Yong Ren graduated from the National University of Singapore’s Medical faculty and embarked on his orthopaedic career soon after. Upon completion of his training locally, he served briefly as an orthopaedic trauma surgeon in Khoo Teck Puat hospital before embarking on sub-specialty training in Switzerland at the famed Inselspital in Bern.
He underwent sub-specialty training in pelvic and spinal surgery, and upon his return to Singapore served as head of the orthopaedic trauma team till 2019. He continues to serve as Visiting Consultant to Khoo Teck Puat Hospital.
Well versed in a variety of orthopaedic surgeries, he also served as a member of the country council for the local branch of the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (Trauma) in Singapore. He was also involved in the training of many of the young doctors in Singapore and was appointed as an Assistant Professor by the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. Prior to his entry into the private sector, he also served as core faculty for orthopaedic resident training by the National Healthcare Group.
Dr Yong Ren brings to the table his years of experience as a teacher and trainer in orthopaedic surgery. With his expertise in minimally invasive fracture surgery, pelvic reconstructive surgery, hip and knee surgery as well as spinal surgery, he is uniquely equipped with the tools and expertise necessary to help you on your road to recovery.
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