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    Knee Pain Treatment Without Surgery in Marbella

    Knee pain is one of the most common reasons patients seek orthopaedic care - and one of the conditions most successfully treated with regenerative medicine. At CellOrtho Marbella, we offer non-surgical orthobiologic treatments for a wide range of knee conditions, from early-stage discomfort to advanced osteoarthritis where surgery has been suggested.

    Whether your knee pain stems from age-related wear, a sports injury, cartilage damage or chronic inflammation, our medical team will assess your condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment pathway. Many of our patients come to us specifically looking for alternatives to knee replacement surgery - and for many, a non-surgical approach is possible.

    Dr. Arvin Yarollahi examining a patient's knee at CellOrtho Marbella

    Osteoarthritis

    Degenerative Joint Disease

    The most common cause of knee pain in adults over 50, osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage protecting the knee joint gradually wears down. This leads to stiffness, swelling, reduced mobility and pain - particularly during movement or after periods of inactivity. Regenerative treatments such as PRP therapy may help reduce inflammation, support cartilage health and slow the progression of joint degeneration - offering a non-surgical alternative to knee replacement for appropriate candidates.

    Chondromalacia

    Thinning of Cartilage

    Chondromalacia occurs when the cartilage on the underside of the kneecap softens and deteriorates, causing pain, swelling and a grinding or crunching sensation. It is often linked to overuse, muscle imbalances or misalignment of the knee joint. Orthobiologic treatments can support cartilage repair and reduce the inflammation driving symptoms.

    Ligament Inflammation (MCL / LCL)

    Stability Issues

    Inflammation or injury to the medial collateral ligament (MCL) or lateral collateral ligament (LCL) can cause instability, pain and difficulty bearing weight. These conditions often develop from sports activities, overuse or sudden twisting movements. PRP therapy is particularly effective for ligament conditions, supporting the body's natural repair of damaged connective tissue.

    Patellofemoral Syndrome

    Runner's Knee

    Patellofemoral syndrome causes pain around and behind the kneecap, commonly aggravated by sitting for long periods, climbing stairs or running. It is caused by muscle imbalances, overuse or alignment issues affecting how the kneecap tracks in the joint. Regenerative treatment can support recovery and reduce chronic inflammation in the affected area.

    Tendinitis

    Patellar & Quadriceps Tendon

    Tendinitis of the patellar or quadriceps tendon is common in athletes and active individuals. Symptoms include localised pain, tenderness and swelling just below or above the kneecap. PRP therapy is one of the most studied treatments for tendon conditions, with clinical evidence supporting its role in stimulating tendon repair and reducing pain.

    Alternatives to Knee Replacement Surgery

    For many patients diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis or significant joint degeneration, surgery - including total or partial knee replacement - is presented as the inevitable next step. At CellOrtho, we believe that for a significant proportion of these patients, a non-surgical pathway is worth exploring before committing to an irreversible procedure.

    Our orthobiologic treatment, PRP therapy, works by supporting the body's natural ability to repair damaged tissue, reduce inflammation and restore joint function. They are minimally invasive, performed under medical supervision, and require minimal recovery time compared to surgery.

    We also offer Arthrosamid, an injectable polyacrylamide hydrogel used in the management of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis and given as a single injection into the knee. It is licensed for the knee only and is not absorbed by the body, so it is discussed carefully before it is offered. Results vary between individuals.

    Suitability for non-surgical treatment depends on the degree of joint degeneration, overall health and treatment goals. The best way to determine whether a non-surgical alternative is appropriate for your specific case is through a medical consultation with Dr. Arvin Yarollahi.

    Arthrosamid for Knee Osteoarthritis

    For patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis, we also offer Arthrosamid, a single intra-articular injection of a non-absorbable polyacrylamide hydrogel. It is licensed for the knee only and is used in the management of knee osteoarthritis where a longer-acting intra-articular option may be appropriate.

    Unlike PRP, which uses your own blood and is typically given as a course of sessions, Arthrosamid is a synthetic hydrogel administered as one injection. It is not absorbed by the body and is designed to integrate into the synovial tissue of the inner joint capsule. It does not regrow cartilage and is not a cure, but it may help reduce pain and improve function for suitable patients.

    Because Arthrosamid is a non-biodegradable implant, patient selection is important. It is not suitable for everyone, and any infection in a joint containing a non-absorbable implant can be more serious to treat. During your consultation, Dr. Arvin Yarollahi will review your knee imaging, medical history and treatment goals to determine whether Arthrosamid, PRP or another approach is the most appropriate option for you.

    Learn More About Arthrosamid

    Knee Pain Treatment at CellOrtho Marbella

    CellOrtho treats knee pain patients from across Europe at our clinic in Nueva Andalucía, Marbella. We regularly see patients from the UK, Scandinavia, Germany, Ireland and the Netherlands who are seeking expert non-surgical orthopaedic care - many of whom have been told that surgery is their only option.

    Our approach begins with a thorough medical assessment to understand the underlying cause of your knee pain, the degree of any joint damage, and your treatment goals. From this, Dr. Arvin Yarollahi will design a personalised orthobiologic protocol - which may involve our PRP treatment.

    An MRI scan is the most important tool for assessing the degree of cartilage loss and joint damage. Find out more about private MRI scanning in Marbella.

    We offer a free video consultation so you can speak with our medical team before committing to travel or treatment.

    Our Treatment Options

    At CellOrtho Marbella, we offer non-surgical regenerative treatments that may help address your condition naturally.

    PRP Therapy (Platelet Rich Plasma)

    Uses concentrated platelets and growth factors from your own blood to support tissue repair, reduce inflammation and relieve knee pain. The most established orthobiologic treatment for knee conditions.

    Learn more

    Arthrosamid

    Single Injection for Knee Osteoarthritis

    A single intra-articular injection of a non-absorbable hydrogel used in the management of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. Licensed for the knee only and selected for patients after medical assessment.

    Learn more

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions about this treatment

    Yes - for many patients, non-surgical orthobiologic treatments such as PRP therapy can significantly reduce knee pain, improve function and delay or avoid the need for surgery. Suitability depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition and is determined through a medical assessment.

    PRP therapy is one of the most studied non-surgical treatments for knee osteoarthritis, with a strong evidence base supporting its role in reducing pain and improving joint function. For more advanced cases or a combined orthobiologic protocol may be recommended. Our medical team will advise on the most appropriate approach during your consultation.

    Orthobiologic treatments - including PRP therapy - are increasingly used as alternatives to knee replacement surgery for patients with osteoarthritis and joint degeneration. These treatments work by supporting the body's natural repair processes rather than replacing the joint mechanically. Suitability is assessed on an individual basis.

    Most patients with knee pain require between 1 and 3 PRP sessions, depending on the condition and its severity. Some patients receive additional sessions as part of a comprehensive protocol. Your treating physician will recommend the appropriate protocol following assessment.

    Many patients notice gradual improvement within 4–6 weeks of treatment, with continued progress over 3–6 months as the body's natural repair processes take effect. Results vary between individuals depending on the condition, its severity and the treatment protocol used.

    Yes - regenerative treatments are widely used in sports medicine for knee injuries including tendinitis, ligament conditions and cartilage damage. They offer minimal downtime compared to surgery, making them particularly suited to active patients and athletes.

    Yes. CellOrtho regularly treats patients from the UK, Scandinavia, Germany, Ireland, the Netherlands and across Europe. We offer a free video consultation so you can speak with our medical team before travelling to Marbella.

    Other conditions we treat: Shoulder Pain · Hip Pain · Back Pain · Elbow Pain

    Ready to Explore Your Options?

    Book a free video consultation with our specialist team to discuss your condition and find the right treatment plan for you.

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    Medically reviewed by Dr. Arvin Yarollahi, Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Specialist. Last reviewed .