Before considering a partial knee replacement, doctors use other non-operative treatment methods to alleviate pain.
- Analgesic, anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g. Voltarol, Brufen etc.
- A change of lifestyle (with regard to sports, weight, nutrition etc.)
- The use of orthopaedic aids such as a crutch, a stick or an elasticated support.
- Physiotherapy and regular gentle exercise.
- Arthroscopy (smoothing down of the surfaces and removal of debris etc.)
- Hyaluronan injection into the knee.
None of these measures however, have a long term and lasting effect. All too frequently only an artificial joint replacement either partial or total can really alleviate the problem and restore mobility.
