Knee Pain: Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Knee pain is a common reason to seek orthopaedic care. At CellOrtho Marbella, patients with knee pain receive a specialist orthopaedic assessment, and the options, both surgical and non-surgical, are explained individually. Some patients come for a second opinion after surgery has been suggested.
Whether your knee pain stems from age-related wear, a sports injury, cartilage damage or chronic inflammation, assessment considers the diagnosis, symptoms and activity goals. Some patients request a second opinion about surgery, and the doctor explains the available options and their limitations. Altered gait can affect both the knee and the foot, so knee pain may occur alongside foot and ankle pain.
Osteoarthritis
Degenerative Joint Disease
A 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. Treatment depends on the cause and severity and may include physiotherapy, activity modification, medication or injections. PRP has been studied for knee osteoarthritis; the evidence is mixed. Suitability is decided after assessment.
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. Treatment depends on the cause and severity and may include physiotherapy, activity modification, medication or injections. PRP has been studied for chondromalacia; the evidence is limited. Suitability is decided after assessment.
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. Treatment depends on the cause and severity and may include physiotherapy, activity modification, medication or injections. PRP has been studied for collateral ligament injuries; the evidence is limited. Suitability is decided after assessment.
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. Treatment depends on the cause and severity and may include physiotherapy, activity modification, medication or injections. PRP has been studied for patellofemoral pain; the evidence is limited. Suitability is decided after assessment.
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. Treatment depends on the cause and severity and may include physiotherapy, activity modification, medication or injections. PRP has been studied for patellar and quadriceps tendon conditions; the evidence is mixed. Suitability is decided after assessment.
Alternatives to Knee Replacement Surgery
Patients often ask about alternatives before deciding on knee replacement. Options depend on the degree of joint degeneration, symptoms and personal goals, as well as medical history and previous treatment. For some patients, surgery is the appropriate option. A specialist assessment or second opinion explains which choices are realistic for the individual case.
PRP therapy may be discussed for some knee conditions after assessment, with an explanation of the available evidence, uncertainties and potential risks. PRP is not a proven way to prevent surgery and is not a substitute for surgery when surgery is indicated.
For symptomatic knee osteoarthritis, Arthrosamid is an injectable, non-absorbable hydrogel that may be discussed after assessment, including its limitations and implant-related risks. It is licensed for the knee only. The article on the different types of knee injection explains how the options differ.
A consultation with Dr. Arvin Yarollahi considers the degree of knee joint degeneration, general health, symptoms and treatment goals. Imaging and previous treatment records may inform the discussion. The assessment explains which options may be appropriate, including a surgical opinion when indicated, rather than assuming that a non-surgical approach suits everyone.
Arthrosamid for Knee Osteoarthritis
For symptomatic knee osteoarthritis, an option that may be discussed is Arthrosamid, an intra-articular injection of a non-absorbable hydrogel. It is licensed for the knee only. Assessment includes discussion of the diagnosis, previous treatments and the limitations of the available evidence.
Arthrosamid is a synthetic hydrogel that is not absorbed by the body and is reported to integrate into the synovial tissue of the inner joint capsule. It does not regrow cartilage and is not a cure. Research on Arthrosamid is ongoing; the treating doctor will explain the available evidence during the consultation.
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 explain which options may be appropriate.
Read About the Arthrosamid Knee InjectionKnee Pain Treatment at CellOrtho Marbella
CellOrtho assesses patients with knee pain in Nueva Andalucía, Marbella. We see patients from the UK, Scandinavia, Germany, Ireland and the Netherlands who want a specialist assessment and second opinion. The consultation considers the diagnosis, previous care and individual goals before any treatment decision.
Assessment considers the underlying cause of knee pain, joint damage, previous care and treatment goals. Each patient is assessed individually, and Dr. Arvin Yarollahi explains the options, which may include rehabilitation, medication, injections or surgery when indicated. Information about PRP treatment can be discussed in that context.
Assessment starts with your history and examination. X-rays or MRI may be recommended depending on the suspected condition. 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.
Options That May Be Discussed
After assessment, the doctor explains the options considered appropriate for your situation. Depending on the diagnosis, these may include:
Physiotherapy and exercise-based rehabilitation
An individually planned programme based on the diagnosis, movement assessment and activity goals, with partner providers where appropriate.
Pain medication and anti-inflammatory medication
Medication is discussed alongside medical history and potential risks. Weight management and activity modification may also be discussed.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
A preparation made from a small sample of your own blood. It may be considered for some conditions after assessment; the evidence differs between conditions.
Learn moreArthrosamid® for Knee Osteoarthritis
An injectable hydrogel used in the management of symptomatic knee osteoarthritis, considered after medical assessment.
Learn moreReferral for a surgical opinion where surgery is indicated.
A surgical opinion may be appropriate depending on joint damage, symptoms and individual goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this treatment
Other conditions we treat: Back Pain · Neck Pain · Shoulder Pain · Elbow Pain · Hand & Wrist Pain · Hip Pain · Foot & Ankle Pain
Coming from abroad? Read our guide to travelling to Marbella for treatment.
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Book a Free ConsultationMedically reviewed by Dr. Arvin Yarollahi, Specialist in Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology. Last reviewed .