By: Dr. Marty Jaramillo, Medical Advisor to AposHealth

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 528 million people worldwide live with osteoarthritis (OA). Of those, approximately 365 million individuals experience OA in their knees, making it one of the more prevalent causes of chronic pain among adults.

While these numbers may seem daunting, those living with OA should take comfort in knowing they are not alone. Many others around the world face similar challenges, and seeking treatment and physical therapy is a proactive step that can provide support and relief. There is no shame in asking for help to manage pain and maintain mobility.

The Value of Early Intervention

When individuals experience symptoms of OA, taking early action is important. Early intervention may help reduce the rate of disease progression and could potentially improve outcomes. Left unaddressed, OA-related joint pain may lead to increased wear on the joints, ultimately affecting mobility and overall quality of life.

Unfortunately, some of the commonly used methods for managing chronic pain may offer only temporary symptom relief. Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications can dull the sensation of pain, but they do not typically address its underlying causes. Over time, people may find these drugs less effective and, in some cases, may develop unwanted side effects or dependencies.

For those seeking alternatives beyond medication, surgery may be considered. However, surgical options come with their own set of risks, including recovery time, discomfort, and the possibility of complications such as infections or nerve damage. Surgery may be appropriate in certain situations, but it is not always necessary or effective for everyone.

Instead, for many patients, a non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical approach—like physical therapy—may offer a supportive and less intrusive option to explore.

Physical Therapy as a Pain Management Approach

Physical therapy typically involves personalized corrective exercises, mobility-focused stretches, and manual therapy techniques designed to help people move more comfortably. Additionally, physical therapists often educate patients about movement patterns and behaviors that can reduce joint stress and discomfort.

By combining targeted techniques with patient education, physical therapy helps create a framework for joint support, movement confidence, and sustainable improvement. Though physical therapy requires time—ranging from several weeks to a few months—it usually does not involve the extended downtime associated with surgery.

Surgical procedures often require time away from work or daily routines for both the operation and recovery. Ironically, even post-surgery recovery often includes physical therapy, making a strong case for trying non-surgical rehabilitation first when appropriate.

Physical therapy sessions typically last just a few hours per week. In some cases, patients may be able to practice their exercises at home, which offers greater flexibility and integration into daily life.

In terms of cost, physical therapy may be more financially accessible than surgery. Even when insurance is involved, surgical deductibles and related expenses can be significant. Conversely, physical therapy appointments often involve only a co-pay, and some physical therapy tools or devices are covered—either partially or fully—by insurance providers.

For those seeking more personalized attention, concierge physical therapy—where a professional comes to your home—could be a beneficial option. While it may carry a higher cost, the convenience and individualized focus can be advantageous for certain patients.

Personalized Plans for Individual Needs

One of the benefits of physical therapy for individuals with chronic knee pain is its personalized approach. Rather than applying a general treatment model, physical therapists assess the unique needs of each patient and tailor plans accordingly. This individualized care may support improved pain management and help patients work toward realistic mobility goals.

In many cases, physical therapy has been integrated into interdisciplinary treatment strategies and shown to support improvements in functionality and pain reduction for those experiencing chronic musculoskeletal pain. When used alongside other interventions, physical therapy may help patients regain confidence in movement while managing discomfort more effectively.

How Gait Retraining May Contribute to Pain Relief

A common focus in physical therapy for OA-related knee pain is the patient’s gait, or walking pattern. An imbalanced gait can place uneven stress on joints, contributing to discomfort and wear.

To address this, physical therapists may work with patients to adjust how they walk—retraining their gait to reduce joint strain. This process often involves re-learning more supportive and efficient movement patterns, which can reduce pressure on affected joint compartments and potentially decrease discomfort over time.

Today, gait retraining may also be supported by assistive medical devices. Some of these devices are designed to help patients improve walking patterns during daily activities with minimal disruption. For example, certain wearables can be used at home for short periods each day, allowing for greater integration into the patient’s lifestyle.

With advances in rehabilitation tools and techniques, patients may find more accessible ways to engage in treatment and self-care, empowering them to take an active role in managing their condition.

In Summary

Physical therapy can be a valuable part of a broader strategy for managing chronic knee pain associated with OA. Compared to pharmaceutical or surgical interventions, it may offer a less invasive option with fewer risks and a more individualized approach.

Of course, every patient is different. It is essential to consult a qualified healthcare provider to determine whether physical therapy is suitable for your specific condition. A tailored plan developed with a licensed physical therapist may help you move forward—literally and figuratively—toward improved well-being.

— Marty Jaramillo, PT, is a Sports Physical Therapist, Athletic Trainer, Strength & Conditioning Coach, and medical advisor to AposHealth. With over 30 years of experience, Jaramillo has worked across the fields of sports medicine and injury rehabilitation. He previously served as the first on-air Injury Analyst for CBS Sports and ESPN, covering injury impacts across professional sports.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional to discuss any treatment options or health concerns.