Knee Pain Without Surgery

• Osteoarthritis: gradual wear of the cartilage that cushions the joint. It is the most common cause of knee pain after middle age and often causes pain on climbing stairs, getting up from a chair or sitting cross-legged.
• Pain at the front of the knee: irritation behind the kneecap, common in younger and active people.
• Meniscus and ligament problems: after a twist or injury, or with age-related wear.
• Tendon and bursa irritation: around the kneecap or on the inner side of the knee.
• Inflammatory arthritis: such as rheumatoid arthritis, which usually affects several joints.

No. For most people with knee pain, and especially early to moderate osteoarthritis, the first line of treatment is non-surgical. Many people improve enough that they never need an operation, or can put it off for years. Surgery is considered when pain and loss of function persist despite a good trial of non-surgical care, or when there is a specific mechanical problem that will not settle on its own.

• Weight management: every extra kilogram adds several kilograms of load across the knee with each step. Even modest weight loss often reduces pain.
• Strengthening exercises: stronger thigh (quadriceps) and hip muscles protect the knee. A supervised programme works best at first.
• Activity changes: reducing deep squatting, sitting cross-legged or on the floor, and repeated stair climbing during painful phases, while staying active with walking, cycling or swimming.
• Supports: a knee brace, cushioned footwear or insoles, and a walking stick in the opposite hand can unload a painful knee.
• Medicines: pain relief and anti-inflammatory gels or tablets, used for short periods and as advised by your doctor.
• Injections: in selected patients, injections into the knee may be discussed for pain that does not settle with the measures above.

Dr. Jindal's approach is to preserve the patient's own knee for as long as possible. Each patient is examined, the X-rays are reviewed, and a plan is made around exercises, supports and other non-surgical measures before surgery is considered.

See a doctor promptly if:

• the knee is hot, red and swollen, or you have a fever,
• the knee locks, gives way or cannot straighten,
• you cannot bear weight after an injury,
• pain wakes you at night or keeps getting worse despite rest and simple measures.

Book a consultation to have your knee assessed.