Dealing with chronic knee pain can be debilitating and limit your ability to perform daily activities. While surgery may seem like the only option, it should always be a last resort.
Fortunately, there are several non-surgical options that can provide effective knee pain relief. Here are some of the most effective options:
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
PRP therapy is a form of regenerative medicine that utilizes platelets from your own blood to stimulate the healing of damaged tissues such as muscles, tendons, and cartilage. This treatment has minimal to no risk, and the healing process typically takes only four to six weeks, which is much faster than surgery with physical therapy.
Most patients report a gradual reduction in pain and a significant improvement over time.
Prolotherapy
Prolotherapy is an alternative treatment that involves injecting a sugar or saline solution into your sore joint or muscle to act as an irritant. This, in turn, triggers your body’s natural healing process by sending immune cells to the area. This treatment has been around since the 1950s and has been proven to be effective in managing joint and muscle pain.
Viscosupplementation Therapy
This therapy involves injecting a fluid called hyaluronate into the knee joint to improve the lubricating properties of the synovial fluid. This helps reduce knee pain and improves mobility, allowing for a much more manageable level of activity.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is an effective option for easing knee pain. Working with a licensed physical therapist can help strengthen the muscles and problematic areas surrounding the knee. Physical therapy is an option before surgery and a must after surgery.
Bracing
Bracing can help manage discomfort in the knee by shifting your weight off the damaged portion of your knee. This makes it easier to get around and perform daily activities more comfortably. Knee braces range in price from $80-$300, which is a more affordable option compared to surgery costs ranging from $30,000 to $50,000.
Disadvantages of Knee Replacement Surgery
While knee replacement surgery may seem like a quick fix, there are several disadvantages to consider, such as:
- High cost: Knee replacement surgery can cost upwards of $30,000.
- Replacement joints wear out, requiring additional surgery.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Infection
- Allergic reactions
- Nerve damage
- Knee stiffness and loss of motion
- Persistent pain
- Increased risk of a heart attack
Non-surgical options always seem to be the best overall option when considering the cons of knee replacement surgery.
If you’re looking for non-invasive, non-drug treatments for knee pain relief, contact Great Day Wellness at (707) 538-3000.