Nonsurgical treatments for knee pain

In some cases, knee pain relief can be achieved without surgical intervention. Sometimes, knee injuries or pain are effectively addressed with bracing, medication, and lifestyle changes. For those with arthritis, physical therapy or steroid shots may help relieve symptoms. The Penn Orthopaedics team offers alternatives to knee surgery to support patients hoping to delay or avoid surgery. Nonsurgical interventions can also be used in combination with surgery to promote recovery.

No matter what knee condition you have, we will guide you in finding the best treatment plan for you. Effective nonsurgical methods include:

Physical and occupational therapy

Knee treatment without surgery (or before and after surgical intervention) involves physical and rehabilitative medicine and exercise programs to stretch and strengthen knee muscles, improving flexibility and support. Changing how you do daily activities can help reduce knee pain by avoiding extra strain. Special therapeutics and gear designed for knee pain can also help.

Bracing

Wearing a knee brace may provide external stability, helping align the joint properly and reducing friction between bones, while strengthening the muscles of the knee. By putting pressure on the sides of the joint, the brace causes the joint to realign, which in turn decreases the contact between the two rough bone surfaces, reducing pain and increasing mobility.

Medication

Over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Advil/Motrin (ibuprofen) are commonly recommended for knee pain management. Muscle rubs using a topical analgesic to temporarily numb the muscle may also provide temporary relief. We may also prescribe medications like antirheumatic drugs and biological response modifiers to help reduce inflammation.

Injections and infusions

Some medications are injected directly into the knee to treat pain, including corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. With infusion therapy, medications are delivered intravenously or directly into the muscles. Penn also offers platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, which use the platelets from your own blood to boost tissue regeneration, heal wounds, and repair cartilage.

Lifestyle modifications

Losing weight, avoiding activities such as running, and performing low-impact exercise are all effective ways to reduce stress on your knee. Penn Medicine can support you in your weight loss journey through our Bariatric Surgery and Health Weight Management program.

Dietary supplements

Nutraceuticals are herbal or dietary supplements that may have health benefits for your knee joint. These supplements include glucosamine and chondroitin, which may help with overall health of the bones and soft tissues.