Alternatives to a Total Knee Replacement

Knee replacement surgery has been performed on knees severely damaged by arthritis since the 1970s. Other surgical and nonsurgical alternatives are currently available and should be discussed with your medical practitioner prior to surgery.

Oral Medication

• Over-the-counter and prescribed medications are available to alleviate the pain accompanying arthritic joints. Extra-strength arthritis formulas (over-the-counter) and NSAIDs (prescribed non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) give varying degrees of pain relief.

Injected Medication

• Cortisone injections, gold injections or injections of a joint lubricant can ease the painful symptoms of arthritis for several months, but they are not a permanent solution.

Orthopedic Appliances

• Use of a cane, crutches or knee brace can be helpful in alleviating the pain associated with an arthritic knee joint. Painful activities can worsen joint damage and should be limited.

Weight Loss

• Obesity can cause further deterioration of a damaged weight-bearing joint. A reduction in weight is always recommended as a means of lessening joint pain and deterioration.

Alternative Surgical Procedures

• Depending on the extent of the damage, arthroscopic surgery, knee fusion, joint restructuring or partial joint replacement can be a viable alternative to total knee replacement.