What Is the Most Effective Treatment for Knee Arthritis?
If you have mild to moderate knee arthritis, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), weight loss, and PRP injections can relieve symptoms and improve joint health. For severe arthritis, partial or total knee replacement surgery(TKR) is considered the most effective treatment for restoring physical function, improving joint stability, and reducing pain caused by cartilage loss.
At Total Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, our orthopedic surgeons diagnose and treat knee arthritis in the affected joint. After diagnosis, we offer surgical or nonsurgical treatments to relieve pain, improve mobility, and restore joint function. We also guide you on weight loss, exercise routines, and walking aids. Call us today at 855-321-6784 to start your early knee arthritis treatment.
How Effective Are Non-Surgical Treatments for Knee Arthritis Pain?
Non-surgical treatments for knee arthritis are highly effective for managing knee arthritis pain, especially in the early to moderate stages. These treatments include medications, a weight loss diet plan, cortisone injections, and hyaluronic injections. Here’s the research-based evidence on how these non-surgical treatment relieves knee arthritis pain and improve joint function:
Weight Loss Programs
A study on NCBI assessed a 16-week intensive weight loss program in 157 overweight or obese patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). Participants lost an average of 13.7 kg, which is 13.5% of their excess weight. This healthy weight reduced knee joint loading by 7% and decreased the internal knee abductor moment by 12%.
Cortisone Injections
A review on PMC found that intra-articular cortisone injections provide short-term relief for pain and function. This Cochrane review included 27 trials with 1,767 participants. Results showed a 40% improvement in pain (95% CI 22%–58%).
Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Injections
According to SpringerLink, hyaluronic acid injection (HA) resulted in significant improvements in symptoms at 6 months. On average, patients experienced a 51.3% pain reduction and a 52.2% reduction in WOMAC pain scores. They also experienced a 44.9% improvement in function and a 60% improvement in stiffness.
NSAIDs (Medications)
According to the NCBI, a meta-analysis of 15,337 patients on celecoxib (an NSAID) showed a 12% improvement in WOMAC pain and function at six months. Here are some other NSAIDs that can help manage knee arthritis pain:
- Ibuprofen
- Naproxen
- Diclofenac
- Meloxicam
- Indomethacin
How Do Orthopedic Specialists Assess the Severity of Knee Arthritis?
To assess the severity of knee arthritis, orthopedic specialists analyze your symptoms, physical function, and imaging results. For instance, X-rays are used to check for joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and cartilage wear. Similarly, MRI can provide detailed images of cartilage damage, synovial fluid, and soft tissue structures.
In addition to imaging, doctors may conduct physical examinations such as the Lachman test and patellar grind test. The patellar grind test detects patellofemoral joint issues by pressing the kneecap while you contract the quadriceps. On the other hand, the Lachman test checks the stability of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). After that, orthopedic specialists assess the severity of knee arthritis using the Kellgren-Lawrence (K/L) grading system:
- 1 Grade (Doubtful): Possible small bone spurs and joint space narrowing.
- 2 Grade (Mild): Definite bone spurs, but joint space is likely unimpaired.
- 3 Grade (Moderate): Multiple bone spurs, definite narrowing of the joint space, and some sclerosis (hardening of bone).
- 4 Grade (Severe): Large bone spurs, joint space narrowing (bones may rub together), severe sclerosis, and bone deformity.
Can Exercise Slow Knee Arthritis Progression?
Yes, exercise can slow down the progression of knee arthritis. Low-impact exercises, such as walking, swimming, and cycling, help maintain joint mobility and strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee. Targeted strengthening and flexibility exercises also improve joint stability and overall knee function. Here are some exercises that can help slow the progression of knee arthritis:
- Seated Knee Extensions: Sit on a chair with feet flat, extend one leg, hold briefly, and lower slowly.
- Hamstring Stretch: Lie down and gently pull one leg toward your chest while keeping it straight.
- Calf Raises: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart and slowly rise onto your toes, hold, then lower back down.
- Step-Ups: Step onto a low platform with one foot, then bring the other foot up, step back down, and repeat.
However, performing these exercises without professional guidance can worsen your knee pain. Therefore, it is important to consult a specialist before starting any exercise program. At Total Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, we will guide you with safe and targeted exercises to strengthen your knees. Contact us to schedule your consultation today.
How Do Knee Braces and Orthotics Help With Arthritis?
Knee braces and custom orthotics improve knee alignment and reduce pressure on your joints, which helps decrease arthritis pain. Braces stabilize your knee, distribute forces evenly, and protect worn cartilage during movement. They also enhance proprioception (the body’s ability to sense joint position and movement), which improves balance and reduces strain.
Moreover, custom orthotics improve your gait mechanics, distribute weight more evenly, and reduce joint pressure that worsens cartilage wear. They also help enhance blood flow to the lower extremities (legs, feet, and ankles).
Can Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy Help Knee Arthritis?
Yes, PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections help manage knee arthritis and joint pain. These injections deliver concentrated platelets directly into the affected knee joint. These platelets, taken from your own blood, release growth factors that support healing in damaged tissue. Other than that, these injections regenerate cartilage in arthritic areas and improve joint lubrication.
PRP also helps reduce stiffness, ease movement, and support long-term joint function. Moreover, according to a randomized controlled trial on NCBI, 517 patients with chronic knee osteoarthritis received PRP therapy. After 12 months, 54.1% of patients showed significant improvements in pain and overall knee-related quality of life.
How Can Acupuncture Help Relieve Knee Arthritis Pain?
Acupuncture reduces knee arthritis pain by targeting specific trigger points around the knee and other areas of the body. During this treatment, your healthcare provider inserts thin needles in precise locations to stimulate nerve endings and improve blood flow. This stimulation releases natural pain-relieving chemicals, such as:
- Endorphins (help block pain signals and improve mood)
- Serotonin (modulates pain perception and promotes relaxation)
- Cortisol (reduces inflammation around the joint)
- Enkephalins (act as natural analgesics to ease discomfort)
When Do Doctors Recommend Surgical Treatment for Knee Arthritis?
Our knee specialist, Dr. Richard McCormack, recommends surgical treatment for knee arthritis when nonsurgical options fail to provide pain relief or restore function. He may also advise knee surgery if you have chronic pain or severe joint damage that limits your daily activities and mobility. Based on your condition, Dr. McCormack may recommend one of the following knee surgeries:
Arthroscopic Surgery
This minimally invasive procedure uses small incisions and a camera to repair damaged knee structures. During this procedure, the surgeon may remove or repair worn tissue and place grafts to restore stability and proper alignment. These grafts help the joint heal in the proper position and reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.
Arthroscopic Meniscectomy
Arthroscopic surgery removes the damaged or worn cartilage and meniscus through a small incision. Then, the surgeon uses specialized surgical tools to carefully smooth the remaining cartilage. This procedure helps ease pain, reduce friction, and prevent further irritation.
Microfracture Surgery
In microfracture surgery, the surgeon creates tiny holes in the bone surface to stimulate new cartilage growth. Though the new tissue isn’t identical to natural cartilage, it can still reduce pain and improve joint motion. Additionally, this process forms a protective layer that covers the exposed bone, which improves joint function.
Total and Partial Knee Arthroplasty
In total arthroplasty, the doctors replace the entire knee joint with a prosthetic implant or artificial joint. On the other hand, in partial arthroplasty, they target only the damaged area, preserving healthy tissue. Moreover, both of these surgeries relieve severe pain, improve joint movement, and help you return to daily tasks more comfortably.
Tip: Avoid eating or drinking for 6–12 hours before knee surgery to reduce the risk of anesthesia complications.
How Long Does It Take to Recover From Knee Arthritis?
If you have moderate knee arthritis, recovery usually takes 2-6 weeks with nonsurgical treatments, such as NSAIDs, nutritional supplements, PRP therapy, and activity changes. However, severe arthritis or ongoing symptoms may take 6-12 months to improve and may require surgical treatments to restore function and reduce pain.
Book an Appointment with Dr. Richard McCormack at Total Orthopedics & Sports Medicine for Knee Arthritis Treatment!
Living with knee arthritis can cause ongoing pain, stiffness, and swelling during daily activities. You may struggle with walking, climbing stairs, standing for long periods, or sleeping comfortably. Over time, limited knee movement can disrupt your job performance, reduce productivity, and affect career growth.
To address these challenges, Dr. Richard McCormack at Total Orthopedics & Sports Medicine provides comprehensive care. He offers NSAIDs, joint injections, dietary supplements, and advanced surgical options when necessary. Moreover, our staff handles all the insurance coverage details and paperwork, allowing you to focus on your recovery. Call us at 855-321-6784 or visit 207-12 Northern Blvd, 3rd Floor, Bayside, Queens, NY 11361, to start your treatment.
FAQs
What Not To Do With Knee Arthritis?
If you have knee arthritis, you should avoid sudden twisting movements, deep knee bending, and prolonged standing on uneven surfaces. Moreover, you should avoid sitting for long periods without moving and improper exercise form. Also, avoid wearing unsupportive shoes, as poor cushioning and improper alignment increase stress on the knee joint.
Can Weight Loss Significantly Improve Knee Arthritis Symptoms?
Yes, weight loss significantly improves knee arthritis pain and stiffness. Reducing body weight lowers the mechanical stress on the knee joint, which helps decrease pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Weight reduction also supports better joint function, improves mobility, and may slow the progression of arthritis by reducing stress on the joints.
Are Knee Injections Better Than Oral Pain Medications?
Yes, knee injections can be more effective than oral pain medications if your symptoms are severe and persistent. Injections deliver medication directly into the joint, reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and improving mobility more quickly. In contrast, oral medications help manage general pain but may not target the joint effectively.
Do Supplements Like Glucosamine Help Manage Knee Arthritis?
Yes, supplements like glucosamine may help manage knee arthritis for some patients. For instance, if you experience mild joint pain or stiffness, glucosamine may help support cartilage health and ease discomfort. However, if your pain is moderate to severe, glucosamine alone cannot provide significant pain relief.
How is Knee Arthritis Diagnosed?
To diagnose knee arthritis, doctors review your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical knee examination to assess pain, swelling, stiffness, and range of motion. Moreover, they often conduct X-rays to identify joint space narrowing, bone spurs, and alignment issues. In some cases, MRI scans also help assess cartilage damage and surrounding soft tissues.
Are Lifestyle Changes Enough To Manage Knee Arthritis?
No, lifestyle changes alone are usually not enough to manage knee arthritis, especially in moderate to severe cases. While exercise, weight management, and joint-friendly activities can reduce pain and improve mobility, you may still need additional treatments. In such cases, medications and injections are often recommended to protect joint function.
Is Heat or Ice Better for Knee Osteoarthritis Pain?
Ice therapy is often most effective for reducing acute knee osteoarthritis pain, swelling, and inflammation after activity. On the other hand, heat therapy helps relax muscles, improves blood flow, and eases stiffness, especially before exercise. You can also use both therapies alternately to maximize relief and improve overall joint comfort.
Does Knee Arthritis Treatment Differ by Age?
Yes, knee arthritis treatment differs by age. For example, if you are between 30 and 50, you may need joint-preserving procedures like osteotomy or cartilage repair to delay joint replacement surgery. However, if you are over 50, you may need a total knee replacement (TKR) or unicompartmental (partial) knee replacement for long-term relief.
