There are a multitude of alternatives to knee surgery. Some require medical assistance and some can be done on your own at home. If a doctor recommends knee surgery to improve your knee problems, take time to discuss the alternatives to knee surgery first. If you are having knee trouble or pain, please see your doctor before attempting knee surgery alternatives.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is one of the most common alternatives to knee surgery. It is even used before and after knee surgery to aid in recovery in addition to being a stand-alone knee surgery alternative. Physical therapy is designed to rebuild muscle mass, improve joint stability and increase flexibility. Physical therapy usually requires you perform knee rehab exercises daily, is significantly less expensive than knee surgery and does not carry the risks of surgery. Insurance companies generally require a referral from a physician before you can begin physical therapy.
Water Therapy
Researchers at the University of Melbourne, in Australia, found that six weeks of aquatic therapy for knee osteoarthritis resulted in decreased pain, improved strength and increased function of the knee. In the study, which was published in the January 2007 issue of the Journal of the Physical Therapy Association, water therapy consisted of stretching, walking, squats, lunges and calf-raises at various depths of water. Water therapy stretches and exercises can be performed in heated water or cool water, jetted water or still water with varying effects. Water therapy should be supervised by a qualified practitioner.
Exercise
Overweight and sedentary lifestyles are significant causes of osteoarthritis, a degenerative disease that can result in knee pain, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Decreasing body mass through exercise has a two-fold benefit. First, less weight on your joint means less pain and less damage, decreasing the likelihood you will need knee surgery. Second, proper exercise techniques will improve muscle strength and knee joint function. A physician, physical therapist or certified personal trainer can help you develop a customized exercise plan as an alternative to knee surgery.
Medications and Supplements
Medications can be used to improve knee problems and as an alternative to knee surgery. Medications can be purchased over the counter or by prescription. This can include pain relievers, anti-inflammatory and steroids. Vitamins and supplements containing glucosamine and chondrotin are also frequently used by people with knee problems. Medications and supplements are quite affordable compared to surgery. Unlike medications, supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, so buy them from a reputable source. You should check with your physician before you begin medications or supplements as an alternative to knee surgery.
