Knee pain can happen because of arthritis, an injury, or years of wear and tear. Knee pain can make everyday activities very difficult. Surgery is often suggested for serious cases, but it is not the only option. There are many non-surgical treatments that can help reduce pain and improve movement.
If you need treatment for knee pain without surgery, this guide will show you the best options. From physical therapy to new treatments, here are the most effective ways to help you feel better.
Physical Therapy and Exercise
Physical therapy is an excellent first option for managing knee pain. A physical therapist can design a program tailored to your needs. This will focus on strengthening the muscles around your knee. Stronger muscles can better support your knee joint, reducing stress and improving stability.
Low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, or cycling can also help. These activities improve overall mobility. They may also reduce stiffness without putting excessive pressure on your joints. Remember, consistency is key. Regular activity can make a measurable difference in managing knee pain.
Weight Management
For every pound of extra weight, your knees feel approximately four pounds of added pressure. Over time, this can worsen knee pain and lead to long-term damage. Losing weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise can significantly reduce knee pain. A registered dietitian can provide guidance on nutritious food choices to help you meet your weight-loss goals.
Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can provide temporary relief for knee pain. This includes ibuprofen or naproxen. These drugs reduce inflammation in the joint, which often contributes to discomfort.
Always consult your doctor before starting or continuing any type of medication. For specific cases, your doctor might recommend prescription-strength drugs. They may also suggest corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation further.
Hot and Cold Therapy
Alternating between hot and cold therapy is a simple yet effective way to manage knee pain.
Cold therapy reduces swelling and numbs acute pain, while heat therapy improves blood flow and relaxes the muscles. For cold therapy, use an ice pack covered with a cloth and apply it to the painful area for 15-20 minutes.
For heat therapy, a heating pad or warm towel can be used for similar durations. Both methods can be repeated a few times daily.
Assistive Devices
Assistive devices, such as braces or orthotics, can alleviate stress on the knee joint. Braces provide stability and support. They are especially helpful for people with ligament injuries or osteoarthritis. Orthotics, or custom shoe inserts, help align your posture. They can also reduce uneven weight distribution that can strain your knees.
No specific device fits everyone. A healthcare provider can help you choose the best assistive tools for your specific condition.
Regenerative Medicine
Regenerative medicine is a promising area of treatment for knee pain. Techniques such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections or stem cell therapy can help. They aim to repair damaged tissue and stimulate healing within the joint.
PRP injections use a patient’s blood to create a concentrated solution of platelets. This substance is then injected into the knee. Stem cell therapy takes a similar approach but uses stem cells to repair tissue. These treatments are especially appealing to people seeking cutting-edge solutions without invasive surgery.
Alternative Therapies
Alternative therapies, including acupuncture, massage, and yoga, may also provide pain relief. Here’s how these approaches can help:
- Acupuncture involves inserting tiny needles at specific points to reduce pain and promote healing.
- Massage can relieve muscle tension and improve blood flow.
- Yoga focuses on gently stretching and strengthening muscles, which can reduce stress on your knees.
While alternative methods may not work for everyone, many find them helpful when combined with other treatments.
How to Find the Best Knee Doctor
Selecting the right knee doctor is a critical step in managing your pain. Orthopedic doctors have the expertise needed to assess your condition and recommend the best treatment plan.
Here are some tips for finding the best orthopedic doctor:
- Research Their Credentials: Look for board-certified doctors with specialized training in knee-related conditions.
- Read Reviews: Online reviews can provide insight into what to expect from a specific doctor.
- Ask for Referrals: A trusted primary care doctor can recommend experienced specialists.
- Evaluate Communication Style: The right doctor will listen to your concerns and explain treatment options clearly. They will involve you in decision-making.
- Check for Comprehensive Care: Opt for centers that provide several services under one roof for added convenience.
At The Bone & Joint Center, our skilled knee specialists, Dr. Timothy Bopp, Dr. Joseph Carlson, and Dr. Brian Dahl, are here to help you find pain relief. With years of experience and state-of-the-art technology, our team is dedicated to helping you.
Treatment for Knee Pain Without Surgery in Bismarck, ND
If knee pain has been affecting your daily life, remember there are many effective alternatives to surgery. From physical therapy and weight management to assistive devices, you have many options. If you want treatment for knee pain without surgery, we are here to help.
At The Bone & Joint Center, we make it our mission to help you live pain-free. Our specialists are ready to provide personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Call us at (800) 424-2663 for questions, or book an appointment at one of our 11 locations by calling (701) 946-7400 or (866) 900-8650 today, or use our online appointment request form.
Take the first step toward a healthier, more active life today!
Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21207-knee-pain
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/knee-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20350849
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/knee-pain/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350855
