Knee Arthritis Treatment in Riyadh: Options Before and After Surgery

Knee osteoarthritis is the #1 cause of chronic knee pain in Riyadh and worldwide, especially after age 50. The good news: treatment usually starts with non-surgical options, with surgery as the final step when alternatives fail.

What is Knee Arthritis?

Knee arthritis is a chronic condition where the cartilage covering bone ends in the knee joint wears away. When cartilage loses its smooth properties, bone-on-bone contact occurs, leading to pain, stiffness, and restricted movement.

Common Symptoms

• Knee pain that worsens with movement and eases with rest.
• Morning stiffness usually lasting less than 30 minutes.
• Mild swelling around the knee.
• Difficulty fully bending or extending the knee.
• Clicking sounds (crepitus) with movement.
• Sensation of instability or weakness.

Causes and Risk Factors

• Aging — more common after 50.
• Excess weight — each extra kg quadruples knee load during walking.
• Previous knee injuries (meniscus tear, ACL tear).
• Family history.
• Occupations requiring kneeling or heavy lifting.
• High-impact sports without full recovery from injuries.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

1. Lifestyle Changes and Weight Loss

Losing 5 kg reduces knee load by 20 kg during walking and can significantly reduce arthritis symptoms.

2. Physical Therapy

Strengthening quadriceps and hamstrings supports the knee. Regular sessions over 6-12 weeks yield measurable improvements.

3. Anti-inflammatory Medications

Paracetamol for mild pain; NSAIDs (ibuprofen, diclofenac) for moderate cases — under medical supervision.

4. Intra-articular Cortisone Injections

Strong, rapid pain relief lasting 3-6 months. Not recommended more than 3-4 times yearly.

5. Hyaluronic Acid Injections

Lubricates the joint; effective for mild-to-moderate arthritis.

6. PRP Injections (Platelet-Rich Plasma)

Drawn from the patient's own blood, injected into the joint to stimulate tissue repair. Suitable for early to moderate arthritis with long-term benefits.

When Is Surgery the Answer?

Consider knee replacement when:

• Conservative options have failed.
• Pain wakes the patient at night.
• Mobility limits independence.
• X-rays show severe cartilage damage and joint-space narrowing.

The modern technique of robotic knee replacement offers superior precision and faster recovery.

Prevention

• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Regular low-impact exercise (swimming, walking, cycling).
• Strengthen thigh muscles.
• Treat knee injuries promptly.
• Wear supportive footwear.

Related Articles

• Robotic Knee Replacement: Complete Guide
• Common Joint Replacement Myths
• Knee Sports Injury Prevention

Book a Consultation

If you suffer from chronic knee pain or arthritis, book a consultation with Dr. Hazim Sakalla at SMC Healthcare in Riyadh via WhatsApp +966 56 122 5544.