8 Effective Nonsurgical Treatments For Knee Arthritis

Knee arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, can be a crippling disease that affects millions of people worldwide. While surgical interventions may be required in extreme situations, various effective nonsurgical treatments can help relieve discomfort and enhance knee function. In this blog, we'll look at eight evidence-based nonsurgical treatments for knee arthritis.

1. Physical Therapy, Especially Quadriceps Strengthening

Physical therapy is essential for treating knee arthritis. Quadriceps strengthening exercises are a significant component of physical therapy. Research has shown that strengthening the quadriceps muscles improves knee stability and function, resulting in less discomfort and more mobility.

2. Weight Management and Its Relationship to Knee Osteoarthritis

Weight control is critical for those with knee arthritis because excess body weight puts additional strain on the knees, aggravating discomfort and further deteriorating the joint. Numerous studies have found a definite link between body weight and knee osteoarthritis. A study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism discovered that losing weight dramatically reduced the likelihood of developing knee osteoarthritis in overweight and obese people. Additionally, weight management has been demonstrated to improve treatment outcomes and slow the course of knee arthritis.

3. Low-Impact Exercise - Why Impact is Bad for Knees

Low-impact workouts are excellent for those with knee arthritis since they reduce joint stress while also allowing for cardiovascular conditioning. High-impact sports such as jogging and leaping can exacerbate knee discomfort and cause additional damage to the affected joint. A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that low-impact workouts like cycling and swimming improved knee function and reduced pain in osteoarthritis patients. Including low-impact workouts in your routine can improve joint health and general well-being.

4. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are widely administered to treat pain and inflammation caused by knee arthritis. They function by inhibiting the formation of prostaglandins, which are inflammatory molecules in the body. Several studies have shown that NSAIDs are useful in giving short-term pain relief. A systematic study published in The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews discovered that NSAIDs were more efficient than placebo in relieving pain in patients with knee osteoarthritis. However, because of the possibility of gastrointestinal and kidney adverse effects, long-term use should be closely monitored.

5. Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroid injections are another nonsurgical treatment option for knee arthritis, especially for temporary pain relief. Corticosteroids suppress inflammation and can relieve pain within hours of injection. A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research found that corticosteroid injections relieved pain in individuals with knee osteoarthritis for up to 12 weeks. However, repeated use should be avoided, as it may cause cartilage injury.

For more information, you can consult with a doctor, which you can find by googling “knee dr near me”.

6. Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Hyaluronic acid injections are advised for people who have not responded well to previous therapies. Hyaluronic acid is a natural component of joint fluid, and injections can help lubricate the knee joint, reducing friction and pain. A systematic study published in the Journal of Pain Research found that hyaluronic acid injections effectively relieved knee pain in osteoarthritis patients while also enhancing joint function. The treatment is well tolerated, with little side effects.

7. Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy

PRP therapy is a regenerative treatment that uses the patient's blood to promote tissue healing. PRP has a high concentration of growth factors that help cartilage regenerate and reduce inflammation. Multiple studies have demonstrated the efficacy of PRP therapy in improving knee function and relieving pain in knee arthritis patients. A randomized controlled trial published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine found significant improvements in pain and function scores in patients receiving PRP treatment.

8. Prolotherapy

Prolotherapy, also known as regenerative injection therapy, entails injecting a naturally irritating solution into the afflicted joint to promote tissue healing. Although research into the usefulness of prolotherapy for knee arthritis is still ongoing, preliminary findings are encouraging. A systematic analysis published in the Journal of Prolotherapy found that prolotherapy reduced pain and improved knee function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Further research is required to determine its long-term effectiveness.