Knee Arthritis: What You Can Do Before Surgery (and How to Know When It's Time)
· Written by Mr Sam Nahas, Consultant Knee Surgeon
Important note: Arthritis affects people differently. X-rays don't always match symptoms, and treatment should be individualised.
Knee arthritis can be frustrating—pain, swelling, stiffness, and the feeling that your knee is "holding you back." I'm Mr Nahas, a knee-only specialist at Circle Reading, and I focus on helping you stay active and comfortable with the right step at the right time.
What knee arthritis is (in plain English)
- •inflammation ("flares"),
- •stiffness (especially after rest),
- •reduced confidence and function.
The most effective non-surgical building blocks
1) Strength and movement (usually the foundation)
- •reduce pain by improving joint support,
- •improve confidence on stairs/uneven ground,
- •help you do more with less flare-up.
2) Weight and load management (if relevant) Even small weight changes can reduce joint load. This is never about judgement—it's about giving your knee the easiest environment to function.
3) Flare control
- •temporary activity modification (not total rest),
- •ice/heat (whichever helps you),
- •short-term anti-inflammatories if appropriate for you (check with your GP/pharmacist).
4) Injections (for selected patients) Injections can be a useful tool for some people to settle symptoms or support rehab. The "best" injection depends on your knee, your goals, and what you've already tried. We'll discuss options and likely benefit for you.
When is it time to consider surgery?
- •pain that consistently limits walking, sleep, work or hobbies,
- •repeated flares despite good conservative care,
- •loss of confidence and function that matters to your quality of life,
- •you feel you're planning life around your knee.
For some, surgery is absolutely the right next step. For others, we can improve things significantly without it.
What surgery aims to do (realistic expectations) Knee replacement is designed to improve pain and function, but recovery is individual and takes commitment to rehabilitation. Clear expectations and a structured plan are key.
Every knee is different. If you would like this looked at properly, Mr Nahas offers consultations within a week at Circle Reading Hospital.
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