Knee Malalignment Non-Surgical Treatment
In many cases, conservative treatment is the first line of treatment for knee malalignment. For patients who are candidates for non-operative treatment, the focus of care will be on reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation, while also improving the overall stability and function of the knee.
During flare-ups of pain, it is essential to rest the knee and avoid activities that worsen the pain.
Oral anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications, such as Meloxicam, Naproxen, Advil, or Ibuprofen, may help to manage the pain and reduce inflammation of the knee. Applying ice packs and compression to the knee can also help reduce swelling and inflammation. Remember to use a cloth or towel between the ice pack and your skin to avoid frostbite.
A structured physical therapy program can be beneficial for strengthening the muscles around the knee and improving overall joint stability. A physical therapist can guide you through exercises that focus on the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles to provide this additional support to the knee. Additionally, proprioceptive training can enhance knee stability. Proprioception is the body’s ability to sense joint position and movement, and improved proprioception can help with knee stability and control during activities. It is important to complete any home exercises that your physical therapist provides to you in order to optimize your recovery.
An unloader brace is a specific type of knee brace designed to offload the overloaded compartment of the knee. In cases of varus alignment, a medial unloader brace is ordered to alleviate some of the stress on the medial (inside) compartment of the knee. In cases of valgus alignment, a lateral unloader brace is ordered to decrease the load of the lateral compartment. The unloader brace offers mechanical support, stabilization, and symptomatic relief while also protecting the knee compartment and promoting overall joint health and preservation.
The goal of an intra-articular injection is to manage pain and inflammation of the knee. Therefore, injections may be used as a short-term measure to manage these symptoms during an episode of more intense pain. However, it’s crucial to understand that an intra-articular injection will not heal cartilage damage or malalignment. Additionally, receiving an intra-articular injection to the knee will delay any surgical intervention for at least 3 months following the administration of the injection.
At a Glance
Dr. Jorge Chahla
- Triple fellowship-trained sports medicine surgeon
- Performs over 700 surgeries per year
- Assistant professor of orthopedic surgery at Rush University
- Learn more
