TL;DR
- Most knee pain improves without surgery when the cause is found and treated.
- Common causes are arthritis, meniscus problems, tendon pain and pain behind the kneecap.
- Options include physical therapy, laser, TECAR, knee traction, shockwave and injections such as gel or PRP.
- Get urgent care for a knee that locks, gives way after an injury or swells suddenly with fever.
Common causes of knee pain
- Osteoarthritis, a gradual wearing of the cartilage
- Meniscus tears, from twisting or wear
- Tendon pain, such as patellar tendon problems
- Pain behind the kneecap, often from weak thigh and hip muscles
- Ligament sprains after injury
Learn more on our knee pain page.
Non-surgical knee pain treatment options
- Physical therapy to strengthen the thigh and hip muscles and improve movement. See physical therapy.
- Laser therapy to help calm pain and inflammation
- TECAR therapy to warm and loosen stiff tissue
- Knee traction with our Knee On-Trac therapy
- Shockwave therapy for stubborn tendon pain
- Injections, such as gel (hyaluronic acid) or PRP. See knee injections: gel vs PRP.
Which treatment fits which problem
| Problem | Often considered |
|---|---|
| Knee arthritis | Physical therapy, laser, knee traction, gel or PRP injections |
| Tendon pain | Physical therapy, shockwave |
| Pain behind the kneecap | Physical therapy, TECAR |
| Meniscus wear | Physical therapy, injections in some cases |
Knee pain relief at home
- Stay active with low-impact exercise such as cycling or swimming
- Strengthen the thigh and hip muscles
- Use ice after activity if the knee swells
- Choose supportive shoes
- Manage weight, which reduces load on the knee
When to see a specialist
Book a visit if knee pain lasts more than a few weeks, keeps you from walking or stairs, or keeps coming back. Get urgent care if the knee locks, gives way after an injury, looks deformed or swells suddenly with fever.
When surgery is considered
Surgery is usually considered for severe arthritis that has not responded to good non-surgical care, or for certain tears and ligament injuries. Many people avoid or delay surgery with the options above.
Before you book
- Location: 6010 Bay Parkway, 6th Floor, Suite 603, Brooklyn, NY 11204, a short trip from Bay Ridge and Bensonhurst
- Phone: (718) 576-2001
- Insurance: most plans accepted. Call and we will check yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can knee pain be treated without surgery?
Yes. Most knee pain improves with physical therapy and other non-surgical treatments.
What is the best treatment for knee arthritis?
Usually strengthening exercise, with laser, knee traction or injections added as needed.
Do knee injections work?
Gel and PRP injections help many people with knee arthritis. Results vary.
How long does knee pain treatment take?
Many people notice change within a few weeks.
When should I see a doctor for knee pain?
If it lasts more than a few weeks, limits walking or stairs, or keeps coming back.
Ready to talk about your pain?
Bay Way Pain Medical Care, 6010 Bay Pkwy, 6th Floor, Suite 603, Brooklyn. We accept most insurances.
Request an Appointment Call (718) 576-2001
