Knee Pain Treatment & Arthritis: Professional Options

Knee pain can creep up slowly or flare after activity.

Whether your discomfort is new or years in the making, understanding professional care options can help you protect mobility, reduce pain, and make informed decisions aligned with your lifestyle and goals.

When should knee pain be evaluated?

If knee pain, stiffness, or swelling lasts more than a few weeks, interrupts walking or sleep, or causes instability (giving way), it’s reasonable to book a professional evaluation. Seek care sooner if the joint looks deformed after an injury, you cannot bear weight, or you develop fever and a very hot, swollen knee.

Signs you may benefit from professional care include pain that doesn’t respond to rest or over-the-counter remedies, a shrinking range of motion, or grinding, clicking, or locking sensations. Treatment choices are ultimately about mobility, daily function, and long-term joint health—not “toughing it out.” This guide is for people with chronic knee pain or arthritis who are comparing non-surgical and surgical options and want evidence-based, non-opioid strategies.

Common causes of knee pain and arthritis (overview)

Several conditions can drive ongoing knee pain. A clinician can evaluate and diagnose; below are common possibilities, not a diagnosis:

Osteoarthritis (OA): Gradual cartilage wear leading to pain, stiffness, and activity-related swelling; the most common arthritis in older adults. See overviews from the CDC and Arthritis Foundation.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition causing joint inflammation, morning stiffness, and flares, often involving multiple joints. Learn more from the NIAMS/NIH.
Meniscus degeneration or tears: Age-related fraying or injury to the knee’s shock-absorbing cartilage can cause pain, catching, or swelling.
Cartilage wear or defects: Focal thinning or damage (chondral lesions) can trigger pain with loading or twisting.
Tendinitis and bursitis: Irritation of surrounding tendons or bursae, often from overuse or altered mechanics.
Post-injury joint damage: Prior ligament tears, fractures, or trauma may accelerate wear and instability over time.

How professionals assess knee pain

Medical history: Symptom onset, activities, prior injuries, other health conditions, and what helps or worsens pain.
Physical exam: Joint alignment, swelling, tenderness points, range of motion, strength, and stability tests.
Imaging: X-rays assess joint space and bony changes; MRI evaluates soft tissue and cartilage; ultrasound can visualize superficial structures or guide injections.
Functional evaluation: Gait, balance, and task-specific movements help tailor a plan to your goals.

Medical professionals who treat knee pain

Primary care physicians: First stop for initial assessment, basic imaging, medications, and referrals.
Orthopedic specialists: Focus on bones, joints, and surgical options; useful for persistent mechanical symptoms or advanced arthritis.
Rheumatologists: Specialists in inflammatory arthritis (e.g., RA) and systemic conditions.
Physical therapists (PTs): Movement experts who design strengthening, mobility, and balance programs; see ChoosePT for education.
Sports medicine doctors: Non-surgical care for activity-related injuries and osteoarthritis in active adults.
Pain management specialists: Interventional and non-opioid strategies for complex or persistent pain.

When referrals are recommended: Primary care often initiates workup and therapy; refer to orthopedics for persistent pain, mechanical locking/catching, significant deformity, or surgical questions. Refer to rheumatology when inflammatory arthritis is suspected (prolonged morning stiffness, multiple joints, systemic symptoms).

Non-surgical professional treatment options

A) Physical therapy

Structured PT programs improve strength (quadriceps, gluteal, hip), joint mobility, and movement patterns. Interventions may include targeted exercises, balance and gait training, step training, and activity modification. Many people experience less pain and better function within weeks when they follow a progressive, home-supported program.

Best for: Most stages of osteoarthritis and degenerative meniscal changes, particularly when pain flares with activity or after prolonged sitting. Limitations: Requires consistency and time; short-term soreness can occur as tissues adapt.

B) Medications

Anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen can reduce pain and swelling; topical NSAIDs (gels) may help with fewer systemic effects. Discuss interactions and risks (e.g., blood pressure, kidney, stomach) with your clinician. For inflammatory arthritis, disease-modifying therapies are managed by rheumatology.

Best for: Flares and short-term control to enable movement and therapy. Limitations: Side effects and not a long-term standalone solution; avoid over-reliance on pain pills.

C) Injections

Corticosteroid injections can provide short-term pain relief for inflamed joints. Benefits may last weeks to a few months but can diminish with repeated use. Hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation) aims to improve lubrication; some patients report symptom relief, though results vary. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is under active study; protocols differ, insurance coverage is inconsistent, and evidence for knee OA is mixed. Discuss expected benefits, risks, and alternatives with your specialist; see balanced summaries from AAOS OrthoInfo.

Best for: People needing a temporary reduction in pain to participate in rehab or bridge to other treatments. Limitations: Relief is variable and typically time-limited; not curative.

D) Bracing and assistive devices

Knee braces (including off-loading braces for one-sided arthritis) can reduce pain during activity. Orthotics may improve alignment and comfort. Canes or walking sticks used in the opposite hand can meaningfully off-load the knee while you build strength and confidence.

Best for: Activity-related pain, instability, or uneven joint wear. Limitations: Benefits depend on fit and consistent use; may require professional fitting or training.

Surgical and advanced options

When surgery is considered: Significant arthritis with persistent pain and functional limits despite optimized conservative care, substantial deformity, or mechanical symptoms that impair safety or independence.

Arthroscopy: Limited use in degenerative arthritis; may help specific mechanical issues (e.g., loose bodies), but it is not a remedy for generalized wear.
Partial knee replacement: Replaces only the damaged compartment; potential for faster recovery when disease is isolated.
Total knee replacement: Replaces the joint surfaces when arthritis is widespread; most patients improve pain and function after rehabilitation. See patient guides from Arthritis Foundation.
Emerging/adjunct procedures: Options such as osteotomy (realignment) or cartilage restoration in select cases; availability and candidacy vary.

Recovery timelines: After knee replacement, walking with support starts within days; many resume routine activities in 6–12 weeks, with ongoing gains for months. Risks include infection, blood clots, stiffness, or persistent pain. A second opinion from an orthopedic specialist is reasonable before any surgery.

Comparing options: what to consider

Severity and pattern of joint damage on exam and imaging.
Age, activity level, and goals: Do you want to garden, golf, hike, or walk pain-free for errands?
Overall health: Heart, lung, metabolic conditions, and weight influence risks and recovery.
Pain severity and functional limits: How far can you walk? Can you climb stairs, kneel, sleep comfortably?
Time and rehab commitment: Will you engage in home exercise and attend therapy sessions?
Durability and long-term outlook: Consider potential need for future surgery if you’re younger and highly active.

Shared decision-making with your clinician helps align options with what matters most to you.

Costs, insurance, and access

Costs vary with treatment type and setting. In general, physical therapy involves multiple visits; injections may require imaging guidance; surgeries involve hospital or surgery-center fees and postoperative rehab. Insurance coverage differs across plans and regions.

Common considerations include visit limits for PT, prior authorization for imaging or injections, and step-therapy requirements before surgery. Medicare typically covers medically necessary services but may require specific documentation; check your plan and ask about copays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums. See general coverage information at Medicare (CMS).

Quality, safety, and risk reduction

Choose evidence-based care and be cautious of “miracle cure” promises. Look for clinicians who explain expected outcomes, risks, and alternatives and who encourage questions. High-quality care usually includes a progressive exercise program and education on pacing, sleep, and self-management.

Key questions to ask:

What is the likely diagnosis and how confident are you?
What are the realistic benefits, risks, and side effects of each option?
What happens if we wait or try something else first?
What is the recovery plan—time, rehab, and activity restrictions?
How will we measure progress and adjust the plan?

Adhering to your rehab plan—especially home exercises and gradual activity progression—can significantly improve outcomes.

Use cases and patient scenarios

Mild arthritis with activity-related pain

A 60-year-old enjoys walking but feels aching after longer routes. Plan: education on pacing, footwear, and routes; 6–8 weeks of PT focusing on hip/knee strength and balance; trial topical NSAID; consider brace for hills. Reassess in 8–12 weeks.

Moderate arthritis affecting daily movement

A 72-year-old has morning stiffness and difficulty with stairs. Plan: PT plus home program; weight management support if appropriate; intermittent oral NSAID if safe; consider corticosteroid injection to enable rehab; discuss hyaluronic acid if symptoms persist.

Severe arthritis limiting mobility

An active 68-year-old struggles to walk a block, with night pain and knee deformity. Plan: confirm severity with imaging; try short-term injection and intensive prehab; consult orthopedics about partial vs total knee replacement; obtain a second opinion; plan postoperative rehab.

Active adult delaying surgery

A 55-year-old golfer with degenerative meniscal changes wants to stay mobile. Plan: sport-specific PT, strengthening, flexibility, and swing mechanics; activity modification; trial brace; discuss PRP evidence and coverage; reassess function, not just pain scores.

Seniors prioritizing independence and safety

An 80-year-old fears falls due to knee pain. Plan: PT emphasizing balance and gait; cane training; home-safety review; consider injection for short-term relief; routine follow-up to adjust goals.

Mistakes and pitfalls to avoid

Ignoring pain until mobility declines: Early evaluation can slow progression and preserve function.
Over-relying on pain medication: Meds support movement but are rarely a standalone solution; prioritize exercise and function.
Skipping physical therapy: Tailored movement is a cornerstone for most people with knee arthritis.
Rushing into (or delaying) surgery without a plan: Explore conservative care first when appropriate, but don’t postpone surgery once everyday function and quality of life are consistently compromised.
Falling for “cure-all” claims: Ask for evidence, risks, costs, and realistic timelines before committing.

Decision support tools

Knee pain treatment options checklist

Have I tried a structured PT program for at least 6–8 weeks?
Do I understand medication benefits and risks for my health profile?
Have I discussed injection options, expected duration, and coverage?
Do I have the right brace/assistive device and know how to use it?
Have I reviewed surgical indications, recovery, and second opinions?
Have I considered costs, access, and my rehab commitment?

“When should I see a specialist?” self-assessment

My pain lasts longer than a few weeks despite rest/OTC care.
I have swelling, locking/catching, or instability.
Pain limits walking, stairs, sleep, or daily tasks.
I want to explore injections or surgery, or get a second opinion.

Concise decision summary

Early, evidence-based care can slow symptom progression.
Conservative treatments (PT, education, bracing, select meds) are often first-line.
Surgery is usually a later option when function remains limited.
Personalized, goal-focused plans work best.