Non-Surgical Management for Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common causes of knee pain and disability in Australia.
It affects millions of people, particularly those over the age of 50. As a leading orthopaedic surgeon based in Perth, Dr Daniel Meyerkort of Perth Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine is committed to helping patients manage knee osteoarthritis through a comprehensive, evidence-based, and patient-specific non-surgical approach.
Non-surgical treatments can effectively relieve symptoms, improve function, and delay or even avoid the need for knee replacement surgery. Below, Dr Meyerkort outlines the key non-surgical strategies used to manage knee osteoarthritis.
Understanding Knee Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease where the cartilage within the knee joint gradually wears away. As cartilage thins, the bones of the knee rub together, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. OA often develops slowly and can range from mild to severe.
Non-surgical management focuses on reducing pain, improving joint function, and maintaining mobility — especially important for patients looking to delay surgery or for those not suitable for surgical intervention.
1. Physiotherapy and Exercise Therapy
One of the cornerstones of non-surgical management is physiotherapy, which plays a vital role in improving strength, flexibility, and function.
Dr Daniel Meyerkort works closely with local physiotherapists across Perth and regional WA to deliver individualised exercise programs tailored to each patient’s condition and activity level. These programs often include:
Quadriceps strengthening to support the knee joint
Low-impact aerobic exercises such as cycling, swimming or walking
Stretching routines to maintain joint flexibility
Balance and proprioception training
Numerous studies confirm that physiotherapy can significantly reduce pain and improve function in patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis. By building strength around the knee, patients are better able to stabilise the joint and prevent further degeneration.
2. Weight Management
Excess weight places additional strain on the knee joints. In fact, each additional kilogram of body weight can increase the load on the knee by four times during activities like walking or climbing stairs.
At Perth Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine, Dr Meyerkort emphasises the importance of weight loss in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Even a 5-10% reduction in body weight can lead to noticeable improvements in pain and mobility.
Dr Meyerkort often collaborates with dietitians and general practitioners to develop sustainable weight loss strategies tailored to each patient's needs.
3. Activity Modification & Lifestyle Changes
Adapting daily activities can play a critical role in managing knee osteoarthritis without surgery. Dr Meyerkort advises patients to avoid high-impact activities such as running and jumping, which can exacerbate cartilage wear.
Instead, patients are encouraged to engage in low-impact activities like:
Walking on flat surfaces
Cycling (stationary or outdoor)
Swimming or water aerobics
Using an elliptical machine
Using walking aids, such as a cane or walking stick, can also help reduce joint stress. Patients may also benefit from modifying their work or hobbies to reduce time spent standing or kneeling.
4. Medications for Pain Relief
Pain relief is often necessary to maintain quality of life and enable physical activity. Common medications used in the non-surgical treatment of knee osteoarthritis include:
Paracetamol – Safe for most patients when used appropriately for mild to moderate pain.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – Such as ibuprofen or naproxen, effective in reducing inflammation and pain. Long-term use should be monitored due to potential gastrointestinal or cardiovascular side effects.
Topical NSAIDs – Applied directly to the knee for localised pain relief with fewer systemic effects.
Capsaicin cream – Derived from chilli peppers, this topical agent can reduce pain when applied regularly.
Dr Daniel Meyerkort reviews each patient's medical history before recommending medications and ensures safe prescribing practices, particularly in older patients with comorbidities.
5. Injections for Knee Osteoarthritis
Injection therapy is a valuable tool in the non-surgical management of knee OA. Dr Meyerkort offers several injectable options to reduce inflammation and improve joint function:
a. Corticosteroid Injections
Cortisone injections provide fast-acting relief from pain and swelling, especially during flare-ups. These are commonly used in patients with moderate to severe symptoms who need temporary relief to participate in physiotherapy or travel.
b. Hyaluronic Acid Injections (Viscosupplementation)
Also known as “gel injections,” hyaluronic acid helps lubricate and cushion the knee joint. These are particularly beneficial in patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis and are considered safe with few side effects.
c. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
PRP therapy uses the patient’s own blood, processed to concentrate growth factors, and injected into the joint to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation. Dr Meyerkort uses ultrasound-guided PRP injections to ensure precise placement and better outcomes.
6. Bracing & Orthotics
Knee braces and orthotics can help offload pressure on the affected part of the knee. Dr Meyerkort commonly recommends:
Unloader braces – These are designed to shift weight away from the damaged compartment of the knee, especially helpful in medial compartment osteoarthritis.
Custom orthotics or shoe inserts – To support foot alignment and reduce knee strain during walking.
These devices are often used in combination with physiotherapy and activity modification.
7. Supplements & Nutraceuticals
Some patients benefit from glucosamine and chondroitin, although scientific evidence is mixed. Omega-3 fatty acids and turmeric (curcumin) have shown anti-inflammatory properties and may offer symptom relief for some individuals.
Dr Daniel Meyerkort advises patients to approach supplements with caution, ensuring they are sourced from reputable providers and used under medical supervision.
8. Patient Education & Monitoring
Education is a powerful tool in managing knee osteoarthritis. Dr Meyerkort ensures every patient at Perth Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine understands their condition, treatment options, and realistic expectations.
He regularly monitors patient progress through follow-up appointments, adjusting the treatment plan as needed to optimise outcomes.
Why Choose Dr Daniel Meyerkort for Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment in Perth?
With years of experience treating joint conditions, Dr Daniel Meyerkort offers compassionate, comprehensive, and modern care. He integrates evidence-based medicine, advanced imaging, and collaborative allied health care to deliver the highest standard of non-surgical treatment for knee osteoarthritis.
Conveniently located in West Perth, Perth Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine provides state-of-the-art facilities and support for patients from across Perth and regional WA. Telehealth consultations are also available for rural patients.
Final Thoughts
Non-surgical management of knee osteoarthritis is effective for many patients and can delay or avoid the need for knee replacement surgery. With a personalised plan including physiotherapy, weight management, injections, bracing, and lifestyle changes, patients can significantly improve their quality of life.
Personalised Orthopaedic Care in Perth
For expert, patient-centred care, book an appointment with Dr Daniel Meyerkort at Perth Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine and start your journey toward better knee health — without surgery.