In short, finding relief from chronic knee discomfort is possible without immediately resorting to major surgery.
- Conservative treatments first. Lifestyle adjustments and physical therapy are often the first line of defense against joint deterioration.
- Minimally invasive options. Procedures like radiofrequency ablation offer significant pain reduction for those who are not surgical candidates.
- Personalized medical care. Consulting a specialist helps determine the best pain relief for knee pain based on your specific medical history.
Finding the best pain relief for knee pain is a top priority for many seniors who wish to maintain an active and independent lifestyle. Chronic knee pain affects millions of older adults, often making simple tasks like walking or climbing stairs difficult. However, you do not have to accept pain as a normal part of aging.
Modern medicine offers a variety of safe and effective options that range from simple lifestyle changes to advanced interventional procedures. By understanding the root cause of your discomfort, you can work with a specialist to find a solution that restores your quality of life.
Why Do Seniors Experience Knee Pain?
The most common cause of knee pain in seniors is osteoarthritis. This condition occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time. As the cartilage deteriorates, the bones begin to rub against each other, causing stiffness, swelling, and pain.
Other factors can contribute to knee discomfort, as well. These include past injuries, overuse, and excess body weight. Identifying the specific cause is the first step toward finding the best pain relief for knee pain.
Lifestyle Changes for Managing Discomfort
Before considering medical procedures, many doctors recommend conservative lifestyle adjustments. These changes can significantly reduce stress on the knee joints.
Weight Management
Carrying extra weight places significant pressure on your knees. For every pound of weight lost, you remove four pounds of pressure from your knees. This reduction can dramatically decrease wear and tear on the joints.
A study published in The Journal of Rheumatology found that overweight and obese adults with knee osteoarthritis who lost significant weight saw reduced pain and improved function. Even a small amount of weight loss can make a big difference in your comfort levels.
Low-Impact Exercise
Staying active is crucial for joint health, but high-impact activities can worsen pain. Seniors should focus on low-impact exercises that strengthen the muscles around the knee without adding stress.
Swimming, cycling, and walking are excellent options. Physical therapy is also highly beneficial. A therapist can teach you specific exercises to improve flexibility and stability.
Medications and Topical Treatments
For many seniors, over-the-counter medications are a helpful part of a treatment plan. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is often the first choice for mild pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen sodium (Aleve) can help reduce both pain and inflammation.
Topical creams and gels are another route for the best pain relief for knee pain. These products contain ingredients like capsaicin or diclofenac and are applied directly to the skin over the knee. They provide localized relief with fewer systemic side effects than oral medications.
What Is Interventional Pain Management?
When conservative measures do not provide enough relief, interventional pain management may be the next step. These treatments are minimally invasive and aim to reduce pain by targeting the specific nerves or tissues involved.
Central Florida Spine & Pain specializes in these advanced techniques. We offer alternatives to major surgery that can help you get back to your daily activities.
Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections are a common treatment for knee osteoarthritis. A doctor injects a powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly into the knee joint. This can provide rapid relief from pain and swelling that lasts for several months.
Viscosupplementation
This procedure involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the knee. Hyaluronic acid is a substance that occurs naturally in the joint fluid. It acts as a lubricant and shock absorber.
In seniors with osteoarthritis, this fluid often becomes thin. Restoring it can help the joint move more smoothly and reduce pain.
Genicular Nerve Blocks
A genicular nerve block is a diagnostic procedure used to determine if a patient is a candidate for radiofrequency ablation. The doctor injects a local anesthetic onto the sensory nerves of the knee. If this provides temporary relief, it confirms that these nerves are the source of the pain.
Is Radiofrequency Ablation for Knee Pain Right for You?
One of the most effective non-surgical treatments available today is radiofrequency ablation for knee pain. This minimally invasive procedure uses heat to disrupt the nerve signals that send pain messages to the brain.
How Radiofrequency Ablation Works
During the procedure, the physician places a small needle near the genicular nerves responsible for transmitting pain from the knee. A radio wave is passed through the needle to heat the tip. This heat creates a lesion on the nerve, which stops it from sending pain signals.
This option is particularly valuable for patients who are not candidates for knee replacement surgery or those who wish to avoid it. Radiofrequency ablation for knee pain can provide relief that lasts from six months to over a year.
Finding the Best Pain Relief for Knee Pain in Central Florida
Living with chronic pain does not have to be your reality. If lifestyle changes and medications are no longer working, it may be time to consult a specialist. The team at Central Florida Spine & Pain is dedicated to diagnosing the root cause of your condition.
We offer comprehensive care plans that may include physical therapy, injections, or radiofrequency ablation for knee pain. By choosing a specialist in interventional pain management, you ensure that you are receiving the most advanced care available.
If you are ready to find the best pain relief for knee pain, schedule a consultation today by calling (321) 802-5021. Take the first step toward a more active and comfortable life.
