Can Arthritis Be Treated Without Surgery?

Pain doesn’t get the final say. We lay out a practical, step-by-step plan to manage knee and hip arthritis without rushing to the operating room, then explain how to know when surgery is the right move. From smarter movement to targeted procedures, we show how small, consistent steps can reduce pain and restore confidence.

We start with everyday levers you can pull right now: adjusting high-impact workouts, building strength in the quads, hamstrings, glutes, and core, and using regular motion to nourish joints. Then we dig into medications that actually help inflammation, why opioids miss the mark for osteoarthritis, and how to judge whether your training is helping or harming based on how you feel hours and days later. Clear, realistic guidance replaces guesswork.

Next, we compare injections you’ve heard about—and some you haven’t. Steroid shots for short-term flare control, hyaluronic acid to improve lubrication, and PRP for a biologic anti-inflammatory boost each have a role depending on your goals and health profile. We also spotlight cryoanalgesia, an in-office nerve-cooling technique that can dial down knee pain, bridge the gap before surgery, or ease worries about post-op discomfort. Finally, we map out the decision points for joint replacement: imaging that shows bone-on-bone changes, a good-faith run at conservative care, and the most important factor—your readiness to commit to recovery when daily life is too limited by pain.

You’ll also hear how our team model links wellness and surgical care so you never feel stuck between options. Whether you want to delay surgery with a strong plan or prepare for a safer, smoother recovery, you’ll leave with next steps that fit real life. If this conversation helps, follow the show, share it with someone who needs clarity, and leave a quick review so more people can find practical arthritis guidance.

To learn more about The Bone and Joint Center at Magee-Womens Hospital visit: https://www.pghbjc.com
Dr. Noelle DiGioia Guthrie
300 Halket St.
Pittsburgh, PA, 15213
412-683-7272

To learn more about The Wellness Center for Bone and Joint Health visit: https://www.boneandjointhealth.org
Tiffany Belculfine
300 Halket St., Suite 1601
Pittsburgh, PA, 15213
412-641-8594