Is There Pain Relief for Knee Pain?

Yes, having anti inflammatory drugs is the most prevalent way of controlling knee pain. However these drugs have side effects as well as limitations. When drugs are no longer effective in reducing knee pain there are other effective options that can be utilized.

Physical therapy is a useful option. The main aim of this treatment is strengthening the muscles supporting the knee so that stability is regained. Depending on the area of the injury, the training is focused on a highly specific area. You can perform some exercises at home, but the critical ones should be performed under the supervision of a physical trainer.

If medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis cause the knee pain, then anti-rheumatic drugs will control the condition.  The most common anti-rheumatic drugs are hydroxychloroquine, methotrexate and leflunomide. Another option would be the usage of drugs called biologics.
Surgery: Depending on the medical condition and physical state of the patient, one of these three surgeries is prescribed.

  • Arthroscopic surgery. Arthroscopy is a process of removing loose bodies from the knee joint, repairing damaged cartilage and re-building worn out ligaments. This shall ensure speedy recovery and lesser discomfort compared to open surgery. However the recovery from meniscus and ligament surgery might require physical therapy.
  • Surgery for partial knee replacement: If a considerable area of the knee is damaged, but some healthy cartilage is still intact, then this form of surgery would be ideal. The damaged portion of the knee is replaced with a metallic or plastic prosthesis. Even though this surgery can give a speedy recovery, the long term effects might be drastically depressing as compared to a total knee replacement.
  • Total knee replacement. High grade plastics and metal alloys replace the original cartilage and bone structure in this form of surgery.  Total knee replacement will considerably improve rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis etc.