Are you struggling with knee pain every time you climb stairs or go for a walk? You aren’t alone. Knee pain is one of the most common complaints seen in orthopedic clinics today. But here is the good news: Surgery isn't always the first answer.
In a recent expert guide, Dr. Rajeev Verma, a leading Orthopedic Surgeon at Manipal Hospital Dwarka, Delhi, outlined a comprehensive roadmap for treating knee pain—ranging from simple lifestyle changes to advanced surgical solutions.
Here is how you can regain your mobility and get back to an active life.
Before jumping to intensive treatments, Dr. Verma emphasizes "Conservative Therapy." This is the foundation of knee health, especially for early-stage pain. [
Weight Management: The equation is simple—the less you weigh, the less load your knee cartilage has to bear. Reducing weight directly slows down joint wear and tear. [
Temperature Therapy: Use Ice Packs for acute (sudden) pain and Hot Packs for chronic, long-term pain (especially during winters) to increase blood flow and reduce swelling. [
The "Gate Change" Concept: An exciting new approach where patients are trained to walk straight rather than "out-toeing." This shifts the load to healthier parts of the cartilage, effectively delaying osteoarthritis. [
Physiotherapy: Strengthening the muscles around the knee is vital. Stronger muscles act as shock absorbers, taking the pressure off the joint itself. [
If lifestyle changes aren't enough, Dr. Verma explains that Injectable Therapies can provide significant relief for Grade 1, 2, and 3 arthritis without the need for surgery. [
Hyaluronic Acid: Acts as a lubricant for the joint.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma): Uses the body's own healing properties to repair tissue. [
Local Anesthetics/Steroids: Used to reduce severe inflammation quickly. [
Surgery is typically reserved for "crippling or deforming arthritis" where other treatments have failed. Depending on the damage, Dr. Verma mentions two primary paths: [
Partial Knee Replacement: Ideal if only one part of the knee is damaged.
Total Knee Replacement: For advanced cases to restore full function and an active lifestyle. [
Knee pain doesn't have to be a permanent part of your life. Whether it’s through weight loss, physical therapy, or advanced medical intervention, the goal is to get you back on your feet.
Expert Tip from Dr. Verma: Don't wait until the pain becomes unbearable. Early intervention is the key to avoiding major surgery later. [
Watch the full expert guide by Dr. Rajeev Verma here:
For consultations, visit Dr. Rajeev Verma at Manipal Hospital Dwarka, Delhi.