What Treatments Are Available for Chronic Knee Pain?
Treatment for chronic knee pain typically begins with conservative, non-surgical approaches aimed at reducing pain, inflammation, and improving joint function. These may include physical therapy, which focuses on strengthening the muscles around the knee to provide better support and reduce stress on the joint. Additionally, using assistive devices such as braces or orthotic inserts can help offload pressure from the knee and improve alignment. Weight management is another important component, as losing excess weight can alleviate strain on the knee joint.
If conservative treatments do not provide adequate relief, more advanced options may be considered. Injections such as corticosteroids can be administered directly into the knee joint to reduce inflammation and pain. Viscosupplementation, which involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the joint, may improve lubrication and mobility in cases of osteoarthritis. For severe cases where non-surgical treatments fail, surgical interventions like arthroscopy, knee realignment (osteotomy), or even total knee replacement may be necessary to restore function and relieve pain.
