Knee pain is a common condition that affects millions every year. It can be attributed to chronic pain as a result of inflammation and arthritis pain, or pain sustained via a minor knee injury. Your knee is a complex joint containing many different muscles and ligaments. If left untreated, your knee pain can get worse and your ability to function in daily life may deteriorate over time.
Despite the risks associated with unnecessary knee replacement surgery, many orthopedic surgeons still rely on surgical solutions as the only option for knee pain treatment. Knee replacement surgery is common, but is not always necessary.
Nowadays, many orthopedic surgeons are quick to offer surgical procedures to target areas affecting the knee joint. However, there are many risks and dangers associated with unnecessary surgeries.
Some risks include:
- Anesthesia side effects, vomiting, headaches, stroke and heart attacks (rare cases)
- Allergic reactions
- Blood clots
- Excessive bleeding
- Wound infection
Have top 5 Non-surgical knee arthritis treatment solution
The top goal is to maximize health through minimally-invasive procedures. Advances in the field of pain medicine means that expert pain doctors now have access to the latest minimally-invasive treatments that avoid the need for knee replacement surgery.
1. Genicular Nerve Block
A Genicular Nerve Block is a great way to alleviate pain instantly due to anesthetic properties. This procedure involves a pain doctor injecting local anesthetic to block nerves that are responsible for transmitting pain. This will then be repeated around several points on the knee to block the genicular nerves from transmitting pain all around the knee. An X-ray machine is also used to ensure that the needle is positioned in the correct area. This is a popular treatment choice and is well-tolerated.
2. Genicular Nerve Radiofrequency Ablation
For lasting pain relief, a pain doctor might recommend this treatment option. It works by stopping the nerve supply so that the patient no longer feels joint pain. It involves the placement of heated needles with the assistance of an X-ray machine to guide the doctor. A local anesthetic is injected to numb the area and increase comfort. Upon receiving this procedure, patients are expected to rest for a few days. Patients can return to normal activities within three to five days and enjoy the benefits of this longer-lasting pain relief.
3. Platelet Rich Plasma (for osteoarthritis and tendonitis)
Your blood contains natural growth factors and platelets. These growth factors initiate natural healing processes in the body by arousing the surrounding stem cells and body tissues. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections work by injecting the knee joint with your own platelets to stimulate growth and healing. It is a great way to use your body’s natural healing processes to promote the growth of healthy cells in your area of pain.
4. Steroid Injections
Steroids can reduce inflammation and are injected into veins, muscles and joints. First, the doctor applies a local anesthetic to the area to numb the knee. With the help of an X-ray, the doctor inserts a hollow needle into the knee joint. Once in the correct place, your pain doctor will then inject steroid medicine into the knee.
5. Viscosupplements
Viscosupplements are used to inject lubricating fluid into the knee joint. The pain management physician will apply local anesthetic to numb the knee joint. Next, hyaluronic acid will be injected into the knee. When injected into the joints, the fluid lubricates the joint and improves the gliding process of the joints. Hyaluronic acid is produced naturally in the body, so it is a safe and minimally-invasive procedure.
