Texas Bone and Joint · Pearland and Houston Medical Center (281) 836-9020 Book online
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Hip and knee pain

Hip and knee pain treatment, with or without surgery

Many people with hip or knee pain can be treated effectively without an operation, at least initially. Our team works with you to find the approach that fits your body, your activity level, and your goals.

What causes hip and knee pain?

The most common cause is osteoarthritis, a gradual breakdown of the smooth cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones. As the cartilage thins, the joint can become stiff, swollen, and painful, particularly after sitting for a long time or after extended activity.

Other common causes include:

  • Bursitis, or inflammation of the small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the hip or knee
  • Tendon irritation or tears around the hip or knee
  • A torn meniscus, the shock-absorbing cartilage inside the knee
  • A previous injury that changed how the joint moves or bears weight

Identifying the cause is the first step. At your visit, we will perform a thorough examination and may order X-rays.

Start here

Treatment options without surgery

Most people benefit from combining several of these approaches.

  • Exercise and physical therapy

    Strengthening the muscles around the joint reduces the load it carries. A physical therapist can design a home program tailored to your condition.

  • Weight management

    Even modest weight loss can reduce pain. Each pound lost removes roughly four pounds of pressure from the knees with every step.

  • Medication

    Anti-inflammatory pills or topical creams can reduce pain and swelling. Check with your doctor first if you have kidney, stomach, or heart conditions.

  • Joint injections

    A corticosteroid injection can calm inflammation for weeks to months. It does not repair the joint, but it can help you stay active.

  • Activity modification

    Low-impact activities such as cycling, swimming, and water walking are easier on the joints than running. A cane used in the opposite hand reduces the load on a painful hip or knee.

  • Bracing and supports

    A knee brace or shoe insert can relieve some types of knee arthritis by shifting weight away from the most worn part of the joint.

When it is time

When surgery makes sense

It may be time to consider joint replacement when:

  • Pain limits everyday activities such as walking, shopping, or getting in and out of a car.
  • Pain regularly interrupts your sleep.
  • You have given other treatments a fair trial and they no longer provide enough relief.
  • X-rays show advanced joint damage.

For hips, we specialize in anterior hip replacement. For knees, we offer minimally invasive total knee replacement and partial knee replacement, using muscle-sparing techniques with navigation and robotic technology. If you already have a hip or knee replacement that is painful or feels unstable, learn about revision hip and knee arthroplasty.

Ready to talk about your hip or knee?

Book online or call to see Chibuzo Akalonu, MD at the Pearland or Houston office.

Book an appointment (281) 836-9020