Arthritis Management Without Surgery, What Are the Options?

Arthritis Management Without Surgery, What Are the Options? By Dr. Vinayaraj M. Kelagadi, Kossin Care, Bangalore

Arthritis is one of the most common causes of joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Many people assume that surgery is the only option when arthritis becomes troublesome. However, in most cases, arthritis can be effectively managed without surgery through a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, therapies, and supportive treatments. At Kossin Care, our approach focuses on helping patients reduce pain, improve joint function, and maintain an active lifestyle without immediately resorting to surgical procedures.

1. Lifestyle Modifications

Simple changes in daily routines can significantly reduce arthritis symptoms:

• Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips.

• Low-impact exercises: Activities such as walking, swimming, and cycling help keep joints flexible without putting extra pressure.

• Dietary habits: A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods (like leafy greens, omega-3 fatty acids, and nuts) can ease symptoms.

2. Medications

Medications are often the first line of treatment to relieve pain and inflammation:

• Pain relievers (analgesics): Help manage discomfort.

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Reduce both pain and inflammation.

• Topical creams or gels: Provide targeted relief for localized pain.

These must always be taken under medical guidance to avoid side effects.

3. Physiotherapy

Targeted physiotherapy exercises can strengthen the muscles around joints, improve flexibility, and restore mobility. At Kossin Care, we customize physiotherapy programs to suit individual needs.

4. Injections

For patients with moderate arthritis, injections can provide effective relief:

• Corticosteroid injections: Reduce inflammation and pain in the joint.

• Viscosupplementation (hyaluronic acid injections): Lubricate joints, especially useful for knee arthritis.

5. Alternative and Supportive Therapies

• Heat and cold therapy: Simple yet effective methods to reduce pain and stiffness.

• Assistive devices: Braces, canes, or shoe inserts can ease strain on joints.

• Supplements: Glucosamine, chondroitin, and vitamin D may help in joint health when taken appropriately.

6. Patient Education and Self-Care

Understanding arthritis is key to managing it better. Patients are encouraged to:

• Recognize early signs of flare-ups.

• Stick to regular exercise routines.

• Practice joint-protection techniques in daily activities.

When is Surgery Considered?

Surgery is usually considered only when all non-surgical options fail to provide relief, and arthritis severely affects daily life. Until then, conservative management remains highly effective in improving quality of life.

At Kossin Care, Bangalore, we believe in a patient-centered approach, where surgery is the last resort, not the first. With the right combination of therapies and lifestyle management, many arthritis patients can live active, fulfilling lives without going under the knife.

Arthritis doesn’t always mean surgery. With proper medical guidance, personalized care, and commitment to lifestyle changes, managing arthritis non-surgically is not only possible but often very successful.

For consultations and personalized arthritis management plans, connect with Dr. Vinayaraj M. Kelagadi at Kossin Care, Bangalore.

By Dr. Vinayaraj M. Kelagadi, Kossin Care, Bangalore