Arthritis can make everyday tasks feel like uphill battles, gradually stealing your independence and quality of life. While joint replacement is often viewed as the last resort, many effective non-surgical options are available—especially in the early stages of joint degeneration. This Arthritis Awareness Month, explore how traditional and modern therapies can offer relief without the need for surgery.
Traditional Options: Cortisone, Gel Injections, and NSAIDs
For decades, conservative treatments like corticosteroid injections, gel (viscosupplementation) injections, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been go-to tools for managing arthritis symptoms. Cortisone can reduce inflammation and ease pain during flare-ups, while gel injections help cushion joints—most commonly in the knee—offering temporary relief and improved mobility. Though these treatments don’t reverse joint damage, they often provide short-term comfort and can help buy time before considering more definitive solutions.
Laser Therapy: Harnessing Light to Relieve Joint Pain
One of the new frontiers in arthritis care is laser therapy. This regenerative treatment uses targeted light energy to stimulate cellular repair, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation in the affected joint. Patients often experience decreased pain and increased range of motion after a series of treatments. Laser therapy is especially promising for those seeking drug-free pain relief and may complement other non-surgical treatments for enhanced results.
PRP Therapy: Using Your Body to Heal Itself
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy also takes a regenerative approach by using a patient’s own blood components to jumpstart healing within the joint. After a small blood draw, the platelet-rich portion is isolated and injected into the arthritic joint. These platelets release growth factors that help repair tissue, reduce inflammation, and promote long-term healing. PRP is particularly effective in early to moderate arthritis and has gained popularity among athletes and active adults seeking to delay surgery.
CBD: A Natural Option for Arthritis Relief
Cannabidiol (CBD), derived from hemp, is becoming an increasingly popular option for those managing chronic joint pain. Available in topical creams, oils, and oral supplements, CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to reduce inflammation and modulate pain perception. While research is still ongoing, many patients report improved comfort, sleep, and quality of life with consistent use—without the side effects associated with traditional pain medications.
Choosing the right arthritis treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Depending on the severity of your condition, a customized plan that combines traditional methods with innovative therapies like laser, PRP, and CBD can provide meaningful relief and help you stay active longer. If you're not ready for surgery—or hoping to avoid it altogether—schedule a consultation with Dr. Ehmke to discuss the non-surgical options that could work for you.
AUTHOR: Dr. Andrew Ehmke is a board-certified and fellowship-trained joint replacement surgeon specializing in robotic-assisted and minimally invasive hip and knee replacement in Chicagoland and NW Indiana.
