Is it for you?
Who is non-surgical care suitable for?
- Knee osteoarthritis, including "bone on bone" changes on X-ray, where symptoms rather than the X-ray guide treatment
- Degenerative meniscus tears without a locked knee
- Patellofemoral (front of knee) pain and runner's knee
- Patellar tendinopathy
- Some ligament sprains, depending on stability and sporting goals
Your treatment plan
The non-surgical options
Non-surgical care is planned around your diagnosis and goals. Most plans combine several of these options.
- 1
Assessment and diagnosis
History, examination and in-clinic ultrasound where useful, with referral for X-ray or MRI only when it changes management.
- 2
Load management
Adjusting running, training or daily activity so the knee can settle without stopping activity entirely.
- 3
Structured rehabilitation
Strength and movement programme with the on-site rehab team at Sports Rehab Centre. This is the foundation of care for most knee conditions.
- 4
Weight and lifestyle support
Where it affects load on the knee.
- 5
Ultrasound-guided injections
When appropriate, alongside rehab: corticosteroid, hyaluronic acid, or platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Evidence differs between these options. They can help with symptoms but do not reverse arthritis.
Surgical referral
When surgery may be the better option
A locked knee, a large mechanical tear, an unstable ligament injury in someone returning to pivoting sport, or advanced arthritis where non-surgical care is no longer controlling symptoms. In these cases you'll be referred to an orthopaedic surgeon, and a rehab plan can start before and after the operation.
Your visit
What to expect at your first consultation
- Your first consultation is longer than a follow-up visit, to allow time for a full history, an examination of your knee and a discussion of your options.
- Please bring any previous X-rays, scans or reports, and a list of any medication you take.
- You leave with a diagnosis, or a plan to confirm it, and a written treatment plan.
Questions
Non-surgical knee treatment: frequently asked questions
Can a meniscus tear heal without surgery?
Many degenerative tears are managed well with rehab. Some traumatic tears, or tears that lock the knee, need a surgical opinion. Assessment decides which applies to you.
Is "bone on bone" knee arthritis always a case for knee replacement?
No. Symptoms, function and your goals guide treatment, and many people manage well with non-surgical care for years. If they don't, a surgical referral is discussed.
How long before I know if non-surgical treatment is working?
Rehab programmes are usually reviewed after 6–12 weeks.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is needed to book.
Does medical aid cover it?
Consultations are usually claimable. Injections such as PRP are often self-funded. Check with your scheme.
Disclaimer: This page provides general information about knee pain for patient education only. It is not medical advice and does not replace a consultation. For medical advice about your own condition, please consult Dr. Ganda or your own healthcare provider.