02 Nov Knee Pain Treatment Without Surgery: Injections and Regenerative Options
Nonsurgical treatments may help some people manage knee pain. Options include physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, hyaluronic acid injections, and genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is another option that is still being studied.
Knee pain can make stairs, walking, and getting up from a chair harder. Here is an overview of common causes and the nonsurgical options a specialist may discuss with you.
What Causes Knee Pain?
- Osteoarthritis, the gradual wearing down of cartilage in the joint
- Meniscus tears and other cartilage injuries
- Tendinitis and ligament strain
- Overuse, previous injuries, and added stress on the joint from excess body weight
Identifying the cause of your pain helps your physician recommend an appropriate knee pain treatment.
Where Does Knee Treatment Usually Start?
Many knee treatment plans begin with physical therapy to strengthen the muscles that support the joint, along with weight management, activity changes, and bracing when appropriate. Injections, when used, are often combined with these approaches.
Which Injections Are Used for Knee Pain?
Corticosteroid Injections
A corticosteroid injection is designed to reduce inflammation inside the knee joint and may provide temporary relief. How long relief lasts varies. Because repeated steroid injections may affect cartilage over time, physicians generally limit how often they are given.
Hyaluronic Acid Injections
Also called viscosupplementation, hyaluronic acid injections are used for knee osteoarthritis to supplement the fluid that lubricates the joint. Research on these injections has shown mixed results, and professional guidelines differ on their use. Some patients report improvement, while others notice little change.
Genicular Nerve Blocks and Radiofrequency Ablation
The genicular nerves carry pain signals from the knee. A nerve block temporarily numbs these nerves. If it provides meaningful relief, radiofrequency ablation may be considered to interrupt those signals for a longer period. Results vary, and relief is generally not permanent. This may be an option for some patients who are not candidates for surgery or who prefer to explore other options first.
What Are Regenerative Options for Knee Pain?
The term regenerative is often used to describe these treatments, but current research has not shown that they regrow cartilage or reverse arthritis.
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
PRP therapy uses a concentrated sample of your own platelets, prepared from a small amount of your blood, and injects it into the knee. Research on PRP for knee osteoarthritis is ongoing, and study results have been mixed. Some studies suggest it may reduce pain for certain patients, while others have found limited benefit. PRP is often not covered by insurance, so ask about cost before treatment.
Other Biologic Treatments
You may also see treatments marketed as using cells from bone marrow or fat tissue. Research on these treatments is still developing, and the FDA has warned consumers about unapproved stem cell products. Be cautious of any provider that promises guaranteed results, and ask any specialist about the evidence, the risks, regulatory status, and cost.
All injections carry potential risks, such as infection, bleeding, or a temporary increase in pain. Your physician can explain the risks and benefits of each option.
Is Nonsurgical Knee Treatment Right for You?
Nonsurgical treatment may be considered for people with mild to moderate arthritis, those who would like to try other options before surgery, and patients whose health makes surgery higher risk. Suitability depends on your diagnosis, imaging, health history, and goals, and a specialist can help you decide what may be appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can injections help me avoid knee replacement?
Injections and other nonsurgical treatments do not reverse arthritis. They may help some people manage symptoms and stay active, but some patients may eventually need surgery. Your physician can help you weigh your options.
Is PRP covered by insurance?
PRP is often not covered by insurance, while corticosteroid injections and some other treatments may be covered for qualifying patients. Check with your insurance plan for details. If you have met your deductible, you may also want to read about scheduling treatment before your benefits reset.
Which knee injection works best?
There is no single best option for everyone. The right choice depends on the cause of your pain, the severity of any arthritis, and your goals. Your physician can help you compare the options.
Talk With a Specialist About Your Knee Pain
If knee pain is limiting your daily activities, a specialist can evaluate your knee, explain the potential benefits and risks of available options, and help you decide on a plan that fits your goals.
Schedule a consultation with Principal Spine to discuss your knee pain treatment options.
Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not replace an evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider. Treatment options, risks, and results vary from person to person. Please consult your physician about your specific situation.