Non-injection treatments for arthritis in knee

Posted by detc @detc, 5 days ago

I am looking for suggestions for treatments for arthritis knee pain that do not involve cortisone shots or gel shots (hyaluronic acid). Can anyone suggest a safe, effective hyaluronic supplement or topical cream instead? Are there any other completely non-invasive options?
I have an issue with a heightened immune system that can become overstimulated and cause neuropathy problems. Thank you for any possible solutions.

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covidstinks2023 | @covidstinks2023 | 4 days ago

detc, Hey there! I do get the cortisone injections every 12+ weeks in my knees along with the hylauronic gel injections once a year. In between, I use over the counter Voltaren Gel which helps greatly.

The clinic told me the key with the best results from this gel is to use it 4 times daily. It helps me greatly. I am
allergic to NSAIDS (Motrin, Advil) BUT, this cream has never bothered me due to the low absorption.

I hope this helps. Praying for you. Blessings....

detc | @detc | 4 days ago

Thank you for your suggestion regarding the Voltaren and your prayers. I’m glad that you’re managing your knee pain.

tad1304 | @tad1304 | 4 days ago

I can relate to what you are going through. I’m a former collegiate wrestler and long-time martial artist—my knees have been through a lot over the years. I now work in the wellness field and have found a combination of strategies that helps me manage pain, maintain joint function, and slow deterioration—without injections or medications.

Here is what has helped me personally:

Collagen Peptides (Types 1, 2, and 3) – support the structure of cartilage, ligaments, and connective tissue.

Vitamin C (I use Ester-C) – essential for collagen synthesis and joint repair.

Baxyl (liquid hyaluronic acid supplement) – a patented, vegan formula designed for joint comfort and mobility; I’ve had the best results with this specific brand.

PEMF therapy – supports joint healing by improving circulation and reducing inflammation, and may also help with immune system balance and even peripheral nerve discomfort.

Targeted stretching and prudent resistance training – keeps the surrounding muscles strong, supporting the joint without aggravating it.

Each of these works from a different angle—structural support, inflammation control, mobility, and function. I’ve also seen others benefit from this kind of multi-faceted, non-invasive approach.

If it would be helpful, I’m happy to share more privately about what I have seen work. Wishing you comfort and solutions that fit your unique needs.

willow5 | @willow5 | 4 days ago

In reply to @detc "Thank you for your suggestion regarding the Voltaren and your prayers. I’m glad that you’re managing..." + (show)

Hi,
Canada and Europe do sell a 2% Voltaren gel instead of the US 1%. My doctor said to get the 2%. With some research you can find it from Canada. I happened to have friends going to Europe last year and they picked some up for me. My doctor told me to use it three times a day for the arthritis in my foot. Good luck!

laughlin1947 | @laughlin1947 | 4 days ago

In reply to @covidstinks2023 "detc, Hey there! I do get the cortisone injections every 12+ weeks in my knees along..." + (show)

Lidocaine cream 4% may also be helpful, if the pain is more localized and stabbing in nature. But it does not last as long a Voltaren. Lidocaine adhesive patches are available at a relatively low cost. I'm hoping to get HLA injections in my knees a week from today.

detc | @detc | 4 days ago

In reply to @tad1304 "I can relate to what you are going through. I’m a former collegiate wrestler and long-time..." + (show)

Thank you so much for the multiple suggestions for my situation. I really appreciate it. I will do research on the treatments and supplements you mentioned. Hopefully, I will hit upon the proper solution and will avoid any injections. Glad to hear that you have been successful managing your issues. If I have any further questions, I will reach out to you.

detc | @detc | 4 days ago

In reply to @willow5 "Hi, Canada and Europe do sell a 2% Voltaren gel instead of the US 1%. My..." + (show)

Thank you very much for responding. I wasn’t aware that Voltaren was available in different strengths. I will look into that. Good luck to you, too.

detc | @detc | 4 days ago

In reply to @laughlin1947 "Lidocaine cream 4% may also be helpful, if the pain is more localized and stabbing in..." + (show)

Thank you for the information about Lidocaine cream and patches. I hadn’t thought about that option. Good luck with your injections.

willow5 | @willow5 | 4 days ago

I have found it online through Canada websites

laughlin1947 | @laughlin1947 | 4 days ago

In reply to @tad1304 "I can relate to what you are going through. I’m a former collegiate wrestler and long-time..." + (show)

Two quick questions:
1.) Where do you buy the collagen peptides and are they expensive? What dosage do you take (daily?), and are Types 1,2, and3 separate supplements or combined?
2.) Do you think the BAXYL hyaluronic acid is broken down in the stomach with acidic content, and are injections a better option, even knowing the HLA injections are not effective for some patients? Dosage?
Thanks in advance - I just got arthroscopic surgery on my left knee in mid-April, and the stiffness and swelling are making mobility very difficult. I limp a lot. I have not started physical therapy yet due to the pain in the knee, that runs also up to my hip.