Stiff Knee (Arthrofibrosis) Non-Surgical Treatment
In some cases, non-surgical treatments can be effective in managing knee arthrofibrosis, especially during the initial 2-3 months following a knee surgery. For patients who are candidates for conservative treatment, the focus of care will be on reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation, while also strongly emphasizing range of motion.
It is essential to rest the knee and avoid activities that worsen the pain or lead to episodes of stiffness.
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. Additionally, Dr. Chahla may prescribe a short-term oral steroid course called a Medrol Dose Pak to further help mitigate inflammation within the knee joint. 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 is extremely important in the treatment of knee arthrofibrosis. Dr. Chahla will recommend attending PT as frequently as you can, even daily if possible. It is important to complete any home exercises that your physical therapist provides to you multiple times per day in order to optimize your recovery.
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 following an injury and promote further range of motion progression.
These are medical devices that are used to promote range of motion progression at home by working the knee through passive range of motion. These devices can help further one’s range of motion and breakdown post-operative scar tissue. Dr. Chahla’s office will submit an order for these devices to a medical device company called Graymont Medical. Graymont Medical will then contact you to help coordinate delivery of the device (s) to your home.
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
