Overview
A non-surgical option
If you're struggling with persistent hip or knee osteoarthritis pain, you may be unsure what to do next. Joint repair or replacement surgery is a great option for many people, but not everybody is ready for surgery for one reason or another.
Perhaps you’ve decided to have repair or replacement surgery but cannot have it now because you need to lose weight or stop smoking before a doctor will operate. Or you may wish to try a non-surgical approach first to see if your symptoms improve. Whatever the reason for not having surgery at this time, you’ve found the right place for expert care.
UW Health is home to one of just a handful of dedicated non-surgical knee-and-hip osteoarthritis clinics in the nation. We work with you to get you back to enjoying regular activities, whether it’s a daily walk in the neighborhood or getting up and down the stairs in your own home. Whether you see us once or several times, we look forward to meeting you.
Who qualifies
Who is a non-surgical approach right for?
We see a wide spectrum of patients in our non-surgical hip and knee osteoarthritis clinic, especially people with mild-to-moderate arthritis. Perhaps you still work but certain physical activities have become more difficult, such as carrying a load of laundry, working in the garden or navigating stairs. Your sleep may be interrupted, causing you to feel more tired during the day.
Patients come to us for many reasons, including:
Obesity: You want to have hip or knee surgery, but you need to lose weight first
Smoking: You want to have hip or knee surgery, but you need to quit smoking first
“On the fence”: You’re not sure if you want surgery at this time
“Maybe later”: You’re open to having surgery at some point but prefer to try non-surgical treatment first
Treatment and services
How we can help
When you come to our clinic, you will meet with a doctor, a physical therapist and a registered dietitian. By listening closely to your story and prioritizing your treatment goals, we will propose a treatment plan created just for you.
Treatments and services we offer include:
Education to help you understand how to keep your body as fit and strong as possible
Information you need to help you prepare for hip or knee surgery, if that is your goal
An individualized physical activity plan
Weight management support
Medications and injections to control your osteoarthritis symptoms
Meet our team
Experts in non-surgical care
Our team includes experts in internal medicine, nutrition, physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Location