What are the Non-Surgical Options for Treating Knee Pain?

Effective Non-Surgical Treatments for Knee Pain

Knee pain is among the most prevalent musculoskeletal health issues across all age groups, significantly impacting quality of life. It may arise from various causes, including age-related degeneration (osteoarthritis), injuries (such as ligament tears and meniscal damage), autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis), or overuse syndromes.

While surgical interventions are warranted, several cases can be effectively managed with non-surgical treatments, particularly in the early or moderate stages. Read ahead to understand the effective non-surgical strategies for managing knee pain.

How Does Physiotherapy Help in Managing Knee Pain?

Physiotherapy is often the first-line non-surgical treatment and has a high success rate in reducing pain, improving function, and preventing deterioration. Effective interventions include:

• Strengthening Exercises: Focuses on the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip abductors to stabilize the knee.
• Stretching: This particularly focuses on the iliotibial band, calves, and hamstrings.
• Balance Training: Enhances proprioception and reduces the risk of falls in older adults.
• Manual Therapy: Joint mobilizations by trained physiotherapists may provide relief.
• Electrotherapy Modalities: Electrotherapy modalities such as TENS, ultrasound, or interferential therapy can help reduce inflammation and pain.

Most therapy programs, with gradual home-based transition plans, last  6–8 weeks. At Star Health, we provide coverage for physiotherapy under our Star Outpatient Care Insurance Policy. We also offer hassle-free claim settlements with reduced turnaround time across over 14,000 network hospitals in India.

Can Lifestyle Modifications Help Manage Knee Pain?

Absolutely. Lifestyle changes are cornerstones of non-surgical management of knee pain. A few of these changes can be:

• Consider Weight Management: Every 1 kg of body weight adds nearly 4 kg of pressure on the knees during walking. Losing 5–10% of body weight significantly reduces symptoms of osteoarthritis.
• Wear Correct Footwear: Soft-soled, supportive shoes reduce knee loading. Custom insoles can help with alignment.
• Modify Physical Activity: Avoid high-impact exercises (e.g., jogging) and opt for low-impact activities like swimming or cycling to maintain joint health without aggravating pain.

What Medications Help in Knee Pain Treatment?

Several classes of medications are practical, depending on the underlying cause. A few effective medications include:

• NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Ibuprofen or diclofenac for short-term use.
• Topical Analgesics: Diclofenac or capsaicin creams provide local pain relief with fewer systemic side effects.
• Paracetamol: Safer long-term option for mild osteoarthritis.
• Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs): For autoimmune arthritis, under rheumatologist supervision.
• Supplements: Glucosamine and chondroitin have shown modest effects in treating mild osteoarthritis.

How Important is Diet in Managing Knee Joint Health?

Diet plays a critical, albeit indirect, role in knee joint health. A few of the diet suggestions are as follows:

• Consider Anti-inflammatory Foods: Omega-3-rich items, such as flaxseeds, walnuts, and fatty fish, as well as turmeric and ginger, help reduce inflammation.
• Intake of Calcium and Vitamin D: Essential for joint and bone health, particularly in postmenopausal women.
• Limit Sugar and Processed Foods: These increase systemic inflammation.

When is Surgery Necessary Despite Non-surgical Efforts?

Surgery may be unavoidable when the knee pain becomes severe in the following ways:

• Advanced osteoarthritis with severe joint space narrowing.
• Failure of conservative treatments after 6–12 months.
• Joint deformity affecting gait or daily life.
• Repeated locking, instability, or swelling.
• Imaging evidence of severe structural damage.

Through proactive pain management strategies and lifestyle modifications, knee pain can be effectively managed.  People under structured care with insurance support can focus on rehabilitation and prevention that is free from financial considerations.  

Also Read:

→ What are the Common Ways to Treat Knee Pain

→ How Does PRP Treat Knee Pain Effectively

→ What are the Best Home Remedies for Relieving Knee Pain

→ What are the Average Costs of Gel Injections For Knee Pain

→ What is The Typical Price for a Knee MRI in India