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There are a variety of alternatives to knee replacement surgery available to individuals suffering from knee pain or reduced knee function. While knee replacement surgeries are common – hundreds of thousands are performed in the U.S. each year – and they have a strong record for providing symptom relief, it’s advised that people try nonsurgical treatments first, particularly younger people and those who have active lifestyles.
The conservative therapies that can be used to address problems in the knee and potentially eliminate the need for surgery include:
- Exercise – By exercising and losing weight, you can reduce the burden that’s placed on your knee and potentially gain relief from knee pain.
- Physical therapy – A physical therapist can work with you to strengthen the muscles around the knee, giving the joint greater support.
- Injections – There are multiple injections used to help with knee problems. Platelet-rich plasma injections can help an injured knee to heal. Stem cell injections can promote the regeneration of cartilage tissue.
- Arthroscopic surgery – A minimally invasive surgery can be performed to remove loose bone fragments, repair tendons, or trim damaged cartilage that’s causing problems in the knee. These procedures are typically performed on an outpatient basis and entail faster recovery than traditional surgery.
If you’ve been diagnosed with a knee condition and would like to explore the alternatives to knee replacement surgery, contact Florida Medical Orthopedics, Sports Medicine & Spine and schedule an appointment with Dr. Ira Guttentag. Dr. Guttentag is an orthopedic physician and surgeon who specializes in treating the knee. He’s an expert in conservative and surgical treatments, and will recommend an individualized treatment plan for you based on your condition and lifestyle.
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