10 Best Non-Surgical Knee Pain Treatments – Knee pain is becoming a common problem for people of all ages. Research shows that about 25% of adults worldwide experience knee pain at some point in their lives. It is not just older people who suffer; even younger individuals face knee issues due to unhealthy lifestyles, lack of exercise, or injuries. According to health experts, knee pain is now one of the leading causes of disability worldwide.

Living with knee pain can make simple activities like walking, climbing stairs, or playing sports challenging. While surgeries are an option for severe cases, many people prefer non-surgical treatments that are less risky and more affordable. These treatments not only help reduce pain but also improve joint health and mobility without invasive procedures.

In this article, we will explore the 10 best and commonly practiced non-surgical knee pain treatments that are proven to be effective. From physical therapies and lifestyle changes to advanced medical techniques, these options offer relief and recovery for different types of knee pain. Whether you are dealing with minor discomfort or a more serious issue, these treatments can help you lead a pain-free life and get back to doing the things you love.

List of 10 Best Non Surgical Knee Pain Treatments

Let us look into the various Non Surgical Treatment Modalities: 

1. Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Hyaluronic acid injections are used to lubricate the knee joint and help with pain caused by osteoarthritis. An interventional pain specialist injects hyaluronic acid into the knee joint using ultrasound guidance. This is routinely performed as a daycare procedure. This usually requires several injections over a few months.

Benefits: The injection acts as a lubricant, improving the movement of the knee joint and reducing pain. It can also provide relief for several months.

2. Corticosteroid Injections

Corticosteroid injections are anti-inflammatory shots that can relieve knee pain and swelling. A doctor injects a corticosteroid directly into the knee joint under ultrasound guidance. This is usually done in a clinic or doctor’s office. Always take them under the doctor’s prescription. It is not recommended to take more than one corticosteroid injection into your knee in your lifetime. 

Benefits: The injection helps reduce inflammation, providing relief from pain and improving knee movement. However, they are usually used as a temporary solution.

3. Medications

Another common non surgical knee pain treatment is medications. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce pain and inflammation in the knee. You take these medications as directed on the label or by a doctor. These medications provide short-term relief. Some may be taken with food, while others should be taken without food.

Benefits: These medications help reduce pain and swelling, allowing for better movement and comfort in the knee joint.

4. Knee Braces

Knee braces life knee caps, are special supports that wrap around your knee to provide stability and reduce pain. You can simply wear the knee brace during activities that might put stress on your knee, like walking or sports.

Benefits: The knee brace provides support, reduces pain, and helps prevent further injury by stabilizing the knee joint.

5. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

PRP therapy uses your own blood to help heal damaged tissues in the knee. In this therapy, a small amount of your blood is drawn and then processed to concentrate the platelets. The concentrated plasma is injected back into your knee to promote healing. PRP helps to repair and regenerate the knee cartilage, thereby reversing the pathology. It is the most promising non-interventional treatment for knee joint pain.

Benefits: PRP therapy helps repair damaged tissues, reduces pain, and can speed up healing in the knee, providing longer-term relief.

Also Read: Non-Surgical Neck Pain Treatments

6. Radiofrequency Denervation 

Radiofrequency Denervation is a very good treatment option for those individuals suffering from advanced knee arthritis who are not fit for surgery, do not want surgery or elderly patients who have limited mobility. Here, the nerves responsible for carrying pain signals from the knee are blocked using mild voltage electric current to stop these signals from reaching the brain. This provides long-lasting relief for such patients.

Benefits: Radiofrequency Denervation helps patients experience long-lasting relief from pain.

7. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese treatment where tiny needles are inserted into specific points on the body to relieve pain and promote healing. In the acupuncture method, a licensed acupuncturist inserts thin needles into specific areas near the knee to stimulate healing and reduce pain.

Benefits: Acupuncture helps reduce knee pain and inflammation by improving blood flow and triggering the body’s natural healing process.

8. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy involves exercises and stretches that help strengthen muscles around the knee, improving its flexibility and movement. A physical therapist guides you through exercises to increase your range of motion, strengthen muscles, and reduce pain. You might perform these exercises at home with guidance from your therapist.

Benefits: Physical therapy can strengthen the muscles around your knee, reducing pressure on the joint. It improves flexibility and balance, which lowers the risk of future injuries. Regular sessions can help you walk or move more easily without pain.

9. Ice and Heat Therapy

Ice and heat therapy uses cold and hot packs to manage knee pain and inflammation. Apply an ice pack for 15-20 minutes to reduce swelling and numb pain. Use a hot pack for 15-20 minutes to relax muscles and improve blood flow.

Benefits: Ice and heat therapy is beneficial for those who are suffering from stiffness and swelling in joints. Ice helps reduce swelling and numb pain, while heat helps relax tight muscles and improve circulation, making both effective for pain relief.

10. Diet and Supplements

Another best non surgical keen pain treatment is Eating a healthy diet and taking certain supplements. This method can help reduce knee pain and promote joint health. Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like fish, and taking supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and turmeric can help with knee health.

Benefits: These foods and supplements help reduce inflammation, improve joint health, and strengthen the cartilage in your knees, reducing pain and improving mobility.

Conclusion

For individuals who are suffering from knee pain and do not want surgery to cure it, lifestyle modifications, medications, and physical therapy should help. In case the above modalities are not helpful and one wishes not to undergo surgery or is unfit for the same, Interventional Pain Medicine has promising treatment options.