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Non Surgical Help for Knee Arthritis

Two types of arthritis that affect the knees are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is caused by an immune system response that attacks the joints and sometimes bones. Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, causes cartilage to wear down resulting in pain, stiffness and swelling. Non-surgical help for knee arthritis may involve exercises, medication or alternative therapies.

  1. Medications

    • Some medications for knee arthritis may be purchased over the counter while others require a doctor's prescription. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen may be taken individually or combined to relieve pain and inflammation. For more advanced arthritis, oral corticosteroids or cortisone injections may be prescribed for short-term use. Corticosteroid use must be carefully monitored as adverse side effect such as elevated blood pressure, vision problems, weight gain and fluid retention may result.

    Physical Therapy

    • Physical therapy is often used in conjunction with medications to help relieve arthritis symptoms. Strength training with bands or weights will increase knee-supporting muscles in the legs. Range of motion exercises such as deep stretching will increase flexibility and help with stiffness and reduce pain. Massage therapy offers pain relief and increased range of motion.

    Diet and Exercise

    • The knees are weight-bearing joints and when an individual with knee arthritis is overweight, the increased pressure on the joints often results in increased pain and faster deterioration of the cartilage. A doctor can tailor a low-fat diet and exercise routine for each individual depending on the severity of the arthritis and the patient's general well-being. Water fitness routines are a popular choice for individuals who have a hard time with traditional exercises.

    Home Remedies

    • Applying ice or heat packs at 15-minute intervals often provides instant but temporary relief for knee arthritis sufferers. Over the counter menthol creams and other sports rubs commonly used for muscle aches may help relieve knee arthritis pain and stiffness at home. Knee braces can also help improve arthritis symptoms by supporting the knee or displacing weight to a less affected area of the joint.

    Alternative Treatments

    • Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into various places in the body to provide pain relief. Acupuncture should only be done by certified professionals who use proper sterilization techniques. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is an electric pulse technique that sends small electric pulses into the knee. The pulses affect the nerves and help block pain signals. These methods of have not been proven conclusively, but some individuals find that they offer temporary relief from arthritis pain.

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