Treatment Options for Delaying Knee Surgery

Eating a healthier diet will help manage your weight. Eating certain foods can improve the health of your joints and reduce inflammation, too. 

Research published in Arthritis and Rheumatology found that vitamin D may prevent the breakdown of cartilage. Vitamin D is found in seafood, including: 

• cod 

• sardines 

• wild salmon 
  
  

These fish also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which decrease inflammation and stop breakdown of cartilage. Vitamin C, beta carotene, and bioflavonoids have also been linked to better joint health. 

The right types of exercise can help with OA. Exercise may improve pain and stiffness and even prevent further damage to your joints. The stronger the muscles around your knee are, the better they can absorb the shock placed on the knee when you move. 

Exercise can also help you lose weight, put less stress on the knees, and ease pain. Your doctor or physical therapist can recommend specific exercises based on your needs. 

These may include strengthening exercises for your muscles and stretching and range-of-motion exercises for stiffness. Aerobic activity is recommended for those who need to lose weight. 

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications like acetaminophen and NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin) can help alleviate some of the pain and inflammation.  

Use caution, even when taking OTC medications. They can interact with other medications you’re taking. Always speak to your doctor before taking new medications. 

Topical medications are also available. These creams and gels contain active ingredients that include: 

• salicylate 

• menthol 

• capsaicin 
  
  

Using these products may relieve the pain and inflammation associated with OA because of their heating and cooling effects on the skin. 

Corticosteroids and viscosupplementation(Hyaluronic acid) are options for those who aren’t getting enough relief from other nonsurgical treatments for OA of the knee. 

However, the newest guidelines from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) don’t recommend this for OA of the knee. 

The results of corticosteroid injections and viscosupplementation vary from person to person. 

The OTC supplements glucosamine sulfate (GS) and chondroitin sulfate (CS) are reported to help improve symptoms of OA. Research has found that people with mild to moderate OA of the knee experienced a 20 to 25 percent reduction in pain when taking these. 

However, the AAOS doesn’t recommend supplementation in their guidelines. 

Using heat and cold for OA of the knee have been shown to relieve symptoms. Heat from a warm pack or warm shower can help relieve pain and stiffness. Applying a cold pack or ice can decrease swelling and pain. 

A physiotherapist can work with you to minimize discomfort. They can teach you how to protect your joints when performing day-to-day activities at home and at work.