Non-operative Ways to Manage Arthritis
Effective Non-Surgical Solutions for Managing Arthritis Pain and Mobility
Managing arthritis involves a personalised approach that includes a variety of treatment options. You may benefit from lifestyle changes such as adjusting your diet, incorporating regular exercise, and using heat or cold therapy. Physiotherapy, oral medications, topical treatments, and joint injections can also help relieve pain and reduce inflammation in affected joints.
In the following sections, you’ll discover non-operative treatments that could help ease your arthritis pain and improve your mobility, giving you more control over your condition.
PHYSIOTHERAPY
Physiotherapy is a key non-operative treatment option for managing arthritis. Through targeted exercises and manual therapy, physiotherapy helps to strengthen the muscles around your joints, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
A customised physiotherapy program can enhance your range of motion and make daily activities easier, allowing you to maintain a more active lifestyle despite arthritis. Dr Keeley will work closely with your physiotherapist to develop a plan tailored to your specific condition and mobility needs, ensuring you get the most out of your treatment.
CORTICOSTEROID INJECTIONS
Corticosteroid injections, often guided by ultrasound for precision, deliver powerful anti-inflammatory medication directly into the affected joint or surrounding tissues. These injections help reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with conditions like arthritis, bursitis, or tendonitis. Cortisone, a synthetic version of the body’s natural cortisol hormone, is commonly used for its strong anti-inflammatory effects.
Corticosteroid injections can offer fast pain relief, typically lasting about a month, with some extended-release versions providing up to three months of relief for conditions like knee osteoarthritis. However, repeated injections should be approached cautiously, as they can weaken cartilage and surrounding tissues. Some patients may experience temporary flare-ups of pain following the injection, which usually subside within 48 hours.
Corticosteroid injections are ideal for those needing quick relief from severe joint pain or inflammation. Dr Keeley will assess your condition and advise on the frequency and timing of injections, as they are often part of a broader treatment plan, which may also include physiotherapy and lifestyle changes.
Cortisone injections can treat various joints, including the ankle, elbow, hip, knee, shoulder, and smaller joints like those in the hands and feet.
The Cortisone injectionis typically performed by is typically performed by an experienced radiologist using ultrasound guidance for precise needle placement. After the injection, patients usually experience minimal discomfort and can resume light activities immediately, though strenuous exercise should be avoided for a few days to ensure optimal healing.
If you have a referral from your General Practitioner (GP) or from Dr Keeley for a joint-related cortisone injection performed at a radiology clinic, the total cost is approximately $365, which includes the procedure and ultrasound guidance. With a Medicare rebate of $125, the out-of-pocket cost for patients is around $240.
VISCOSUPPLEMENTATION: HYALURONIC ACID (CINGAL) INJECTIONS FOR KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in joints that helps with lubrication and cushioning. Viscosupplementation involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the knee joint to relieve osteoarthritis pain by improving lubrication and mobility.
For patients with arthritis, Dr Keeley may recommend Cingal, a combination of hyaluronic acid and a corticosteroid. The hyaluronic acid enhances joint lubrication, while the corticosteroid provides quick anti-inflammatory relief.
Hyaluronic acid injections can offer pain relief and improved joint function, with effects lasting six months to a year. They are most effective for mild to moderate osteoarthritis, though results can vary.
This treatment is suitable for individuals who have not found relief through other non-surgical methods like pain medications or physiotherapy.
Dr Keeley will numb the area and inject hyaluronic acid into the joint, typically taking just a few minutes. Afterward, avoid strenuous activities for 48 hours to a week.
With a referral from your General Practitioner (GP), the cost of a Cingal injection, administered by Dr Keeley, is approximately $690 per injection. A Medicare rebate is available to help reduce the out-of-pocket expense.
STEM CELL THERAPY: ADIPOSE-DERIVED MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS
Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a promising area of regenerative medicine, offering potential for repairing damaged tissues and reducing inflammation. These stem cells are harvested from a patient’s own fat tissue (adipose) andhave the ability to differentiate into various cell types, aiding in the repair of joints, tendons, and ligaments.
In conditions like osteoarthritis and chronic tendon injuries, adipose-derived MSCs can help stimulate healing and improve joint function.
Stem cells derived from adipose tissue offer a natural way to promote tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation. This type of therapy may be particularly beneficial for patients with osteoarthritis or long-standing tendon injuries who haven’t found relief with conventional treatments. While research into the effectiveness of this therapy is ongoing, it holds promise as a future alternative to surgery. It’s important to note that results can vary, and this treatment should be carefully considered with guidance from your GP or Dr Keeley.
Stem cell therapy may be suitable for patients with chronic musculoskeletal conditions who are seeking non-surgical options. It is especially considered for individuals looking to avoid surgery or for those who haven’t responded to other non-operative treatments.
- Osteoarthritis (especially knee and hip)
- Tendon injuries (e.g., Achilles tendonitis, rotator cuff injuries)
- Ligament injuries
- Cartilage defects
The number of sessions required for adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy can vary depending on the patient’s condition, severity of the injury or arthritis, and how the body responds to the treatment. Generally, patients may need anywhere from one to three sessions, spaced weeks or months apart. This can differ for each individual, and Dr Keeley will assess your progress and recommend the appropriate treatment plan during your consultation.
In Australia, the cost of stem cell therapy can vary widely but generally ranges from $3,000 to $7,000 per session.
JOINT ASPIRATION
Joint aspiration, also known as arthrocentesis, is a procedure used to remove fluid from a swollen or painful joint. This fluid build-up, known as effusion, can occur due to conditions like arthritis, infections, or injuries. By removing the excess fluid, joint aspiration can help relieve pain, reduce swelling, and improve joint function. It is also used to diagnose the cause of joint swelling by analysing the extracted fluid for signs of infection, inflammation, or other underlying issues.
Joint aspiration offers both diagnostic and therapeutic benefits. It can provide immediate relief from discomfort caused by joint swelling and stiffness. Analysing the fluid can also help diagnose conditions like infections, gout, or inflammatory arthritis, allowing Dr Keeley to tailor a treatment plan based on the findings.
Joint aspiration is commonly performed on large joints, such as:
- Knee
- Hip
- Shoulder
- Elbow
- Ankle
Joint aspiration is typically a quick, minimally invasive procedure. Dr Keeley will numb the area and use a thin needle to withdraw the excess fluid from the joint. The procedure generally takes just a few minutes, and you may feel some mild discomfort during the process. Once the fluid is removed, you should experience a reduction in swelling and pain.
CareAfter the procedure, patients can usually resume normal activities, although strenuous exercise should be avoided for a short period to allow the joint to recover. If the fluid is being sent for analysis, Dr Keeley will review the results and discuss any necessary follow-up treatments.