Non-operative (or conservative) management means treating knee arthritis without surgery. This approach uses various treatment modalities to reduce symptoms and restore function.
When is non-operative management appropriate?
- Minor cartilage injuries, partial ligament tears or tendon injuries and sprains around the knee can often can be managed successfully without surgery.
- Patients who do not participate in high-impact/pivoting sport or those who have high risks of undergoing surgery due to other medical conditions will also often be managed non-operatively in the first instance.
What does non-operative management consist of?
- Rest – avoiding activities that stress the knee and using crutches or a brace can often help settle the knee
- Pain control – Paracetamol and anti-inflammatory medications as well as ice therapy can help reduce pain and swelling within the knee following any flare-ups of arthritis
- Braces – adjuncts that can provide an external support to the knee and reduce instability or correct alignment
- Physiotherapy –strengthening the muscles around the knee (quadriceps and hamstrings) to improve stability and maintaining a good range of motion is very important in the non-operative management of arthritis. At Glasgow Knee Surgery Clinic we have links to several leading physiotherapists within the region and can recommend and liaise directly with them regarding your condition.
What if non-operative management fails?
If symptoms continue despite a good attempt at non-operative management then joint replacement surgery should be considered.
