Living With Arthritic Pain: Non-Surgical Management Options in Melbourne
If you've been diagnosed with arthritis, you're probably familiar with the aching joints, the stiffness that greets you every morning, and the frustration of not being able to do things as easily as you once did. Maybe you've been told that surgery is your only option, or that you just need to "learn to live with it."
Here's the truth: while arthritis is a chronic condition that can't be cured, it can absolutely be managed. And surgery isn't the only answer—in fact, for many people, non-surgical treatments can provide significant relief and help you maintain an active, fulfilling life.
Let's explore what arthritis really is, how it affects your body, and what non-surgical treatment options are available right here in Melbourne to help you manage your pain and keep moving.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis isn't just one condition—it's actually an umbrella term for over 100 different types of joint disorders. But they all have one thing in common: inflammation and damage to the joints that causes pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
The most common types include:
Osteoarthritis (OA): Often called "wear and tear" arthritis, this occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions your joints gradually breaks down over time. It most commonly affects the knees, hips, hands, and spine.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition where your immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of your joints, causing inflammation, pain, and eventual joint damage.
Psoriatic arthritis: A type of arthritis that affects some people with the skin condition psoriasis, causing joint pain and inflammation.
Ankylosing spondylitis: A type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine, causing inflammation and stiffness in the back and neck.
Gout: Caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden, severe episodes of pain and swelling.
Common symptoms of arthritis include:
Joint pain that may be constant or come and go
Stiffness, especially in the morning or after sitting for a while
Swelling and warmth around affected joints
Reduced range of motion
Grinding or clicking sensations in the joint
Fatigue and general feeling of being unwell (particularly with inflammatory types)
The severity varies from person to person. Some people have mild symptoms that are more of an annoyance, while others experience significant pain that affects their daily activities.
Do You Always Need Surgery for Arthritis?
This is one of the biggest misconceptions about arthritis—that surgery is inevitable.
The reality is that most people with arthritis can manage their symptoms effectively without surgery. Joint replacement or other surgical procedures are typically reserved for severe cases where:
Conservative treatments haven't provided adequate relief
Joint damage is extensive
Pain is significantly impacting quality of life
Mobility is severely limited
Even if you eventually need surgery, non-surgical treatments can help you manage symptoms in the meantime, strengthen the muscles around your joints, and potentially delay the need for surgical intervention.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Arthritis
The good news is that there are many effective ways to manage arthritic pain without going under the knife. The best approach usually combines several different strategies tailored to your specific type of arthritis and symptoms.
Medications for Arthritis Pain
Medications play an important role in managing arthritis symptoms and, in some cases, slowing disease progression.
Over-the-counter pain relievers:
Paracetamol: Helpful for mild to moderate pain with minimal side effects
NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or naproxen): Reduce both pain and inflammation, though long-term use requires medical supervision
Prescription medications:
COX-2 inhibitors: Anti-inflammatory drugs that may have fewer stomach side effects than traditional NSAIDs
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): For inflammatory types like rheumatoid arthritis, these medications can slow disease progression
Biologics: Advanced medications that target specific parts of the immune system in inflammatory arthritis
Topical pain relievers: Creams, gels, or patches applied directly to painful joints
Your doctor will work with you to find the medication approach that provides the best balance of pain relief and minimal side effects.
Physical Therapy and Exercise
This might sound counterintuitive—moving when your joints hurt? But research consistently shows that appropriate exercise is one of the most effective treatments for arthritis.
Benefits of physical therapy include:
Strengthening muscles around affected joints to provide better support
Improving flexibility and range of motion
Reducing stiffness and pain
Maintaining or improving function
Helping you stay independent
A physiotherapist who understands arthritis can design a program specifically for you, focusing on:
Low-impact aerobic exercise: Walking, swimming, or cycling to improve cardiovascular health without stressing joints
Strength training: Building muscle to support and protect affected joints
Range-of-motion exercises: Maintaining or improving joint flexibility
Balance training: Reducing fall risk, especially important if arthritis affects your lower body
The key is finding the right balance—enough activity to stay strong and mobile, but not so much that you aggravate your joints.
Weight Management
If you carry extra weight and have arthritis in your knees, hips, or spine, losing even a modest amount can make a significant difference. Every kilogram of excess weight puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints.
Research shows that losing just 5-10% of your body weight can:
Reduce joint pain and stiffness
Improve mobility and function
Slow the progression of osteoarthritis
Reduce inflammation throughout your body
Your healthcare team can help you develop a sensible eating plan and exercise program that supports healthy weight loss without aggravating your arthritis.
Interventional Pain Treatments
When medication and physical therapy aren't providing enough relief, interventional procedures can offer more targeted pain management without surgery.
Cortisone (corticosteroid) injections: These powerful anti-inflammatory medications are injected directly into the affected joint to reduce swelling and pain. Relief can last from a few weeks to several months. They're commonly used for knees, shoulders, hips, and small joints in the hands.
Hyaluronic acid injections: Also called viscosupplementation, these injections add lubrication to the joint (particularly the knee) to reduce friction and pain. They may provide relief for several months.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: This regenerative treatment uses concentrated platelets from your own blood to support healing and reduce inflammation in arthritic joints. Research is ongoing, but many patients report significant improvement.
Nerve blocks: For arthritis pain that involves specific nerves, targeted nerve blocks can interrupt pain signals and provide relief.
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA): For arthritis in the spine (facet joint arthritis), RFA uses heat to temporarily disable nerves that transmit pain signals, offering relief that can last six months to two years.
These procedures are typically performed in an outpatient setting and are much less invasive than surgery, with shorter recovery times.
Assistive Devices and Modifications
Sometimes, simple tools and adjustments can make a big difference in managing arthritis pain and maintaining independence.
Helpful devices include:
Braces or splints to support and stabilize affected joints
Canes or walking aids to reduce stress on hips and knees
Ergonomic tools with larger, easier-to-grip handles
Shoe inserts or supportive footwear to improve alignment and reduce joint stress
Jar openers, button hooks, and other adaptive equipment for daily tasks
An occupational therapist can assess your needs and recommend specific devices and home modifications that make daily activities easier and less painful.
Heat and Cold Therapy
These simple, at-home treatments can provide real relief:
Heat therapy:
Relaxes muscles and improves circulation
Reduces stiffness, especially in the morning
Try warm baths, heating pads, or warm towels
Cold therapy:
Reduces inflammation and numbs pain
Particularly helpful after activity or during flare-ups
Use ice packs wrapped in a towel for 15-20 minutes at a time
Many people find that alternating between heat and cold works best, or using heat before activity and cold afterward.
Complementary Therapies
While these shouldn't replace medical treatment, many people with arthritis find additional relief from:
Acupuncture: Some research suggests acupuncture can help reduce arthritis pain and improve function.
Massage therapy: Can relieve muscle tension around affected joints and promote relaxation.
Tai chi and yoga: These gentle, low-impact practices improve flexibility, balance, and strength while being easy on joints.
Meditation and mindfulness: Help manage the stress and emotional impact of living with chronic pain.
Dietary supplements: Some people find relief from supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, or omega-3 fatty acids, though evidence is mixed. Always discuss supplements with your doctor before starting them.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet
What you eat can influence inflammation levels in your body. While diet alone won't cure arthritis, an anti-inflammatory eating pattern may help reduce symptoms.
Foods that may help reduce inflammation:
Fatty fish rich in omega-3s (salmon, sardines, mackerel)
Colorful fruits and vegetables
Whole grains
Nuts and seeds
Olive oil
Green tea
Foods that may increase inflammation:
Processed foods high in sugar
Refined carbohydrates
Red meat and processed meats
Excess alcohol
Foods high in saturated fats
You don't need to follow a restrictive diet—just gradually shift toward more anti-inflammatory foods and notice how your body responds.
Creating Your Personal Arthritis Management Plan
The most effective approach to managing arthritis combines several strategies tailored to your specific situation. Your personalized plan might include:
The right medication regimen to control pain and inflammation
Regular physical therapy or exercise program
Periodic interventional procedures when needed
Lifestyle modifications to protect your joints
Stress management and psychological support
Regular monitoring and adjustments as your needs change
This isn't a one-time fix—it's an ongoing process of finding what works for you and adapting as needed.
What About Flare-Ups?
Even with good management, most people with arthritis experience occasional flare-ups—periods when symptoms get worse. Common triggers include:
Overactivity or repetitive movements
Changes in weather (many people notice increased pain with cold or damp conditions)
Stress
Illness or infection
Skipping medications or exercises
When a flare-up happens:
Don't panic—flare-ups are temporary
Rest the affected joint, but don't stop moving completely
Apply cold therapy to reduce inflammation
Take your prescribed medication
Gentle stretching can help once acute pain subsides
Contact your doctor if the flare-up is severe or doesn't improve
Learning to recognize and manage flare-ups is an important part of living well with arthritis.
When Should You See a Pain Specialist?
Consider consulting a pain specialist if:
Your arthritis pain is significantly affecting your daily life
Over-the-counter medications aren't providing adequate relief
You're interested in interventional procedures like injections
You're trying to delay or avoid surgery
You want a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to pain management
Your current treatment plan isn't working as well as you'd like
Pain specialists have expertise in non-surgical treatments and can offer options your GP might not provide.
Living Well With Arthritis
While arthritis is a chronic condition, it doesn't have to define your life. Many people with arthritis lead active, fulfilling lives by:
Staying active: Regular movement keeps joints flexible and muscles strong. Find activities you enjoy—whether that's swimming, walking, gardening, or gentle yoga.
Pacing yourself: Balance activity with rest. Breaking tasks into smaller chunks and taking breaks can prevent overexertion.
Planning ahead: On days when you're feeling good, resist the urge to do everything. Save some energy for tomorrow.
Asking for help: There's no shame in accepting assistance or using adaptive devices. They help you conserve energy and protect your joints.
Staying connected: Arthritis can be isolating. Stay connected with friends, family, and consider joining a support group.
Maintaining a positive outlook: Focus on what you can do rather than what you can't. Celebrate small victories and be kind to yourself on difficult days.
Continuing education: The more you understand about your condition, the better equipped you are to manage it effectively.
You Don't Have to Accept Pain as Normal
One of the biggest mistakes people make with arthritis is assuming that pain is just something they have to live with. While some discomfort may be inevitable, severe, constant pain is not.
If arthritis is preventing you from doing things you love, keeping you up at night, or significantly impacting your quality of life, it's time to explore your options. There are more treatment possibilities than ever before, and you deserve to feel as good as possible.
We're Here to Help You Live Better
At Metro Pain Group, we understand the unique challenges of living with arthritis. For over 30 years, we've been helping people across Melbourne manage arthritic pain and maintain their independence without rushing to surgery.
Our experienced team of pain specialists offers comprehensive, evidence-based care including:
Thorough assessment to understand your specific type and severity of arthritis
Personalized treatment plans that combine the most effective therapies for your situation
Access to advanced interventional procedures when appropriate
Coordination with physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and other specialists
Ongoing support and adjustments as your needs change
We believe that non-surgical management should always be fully explored before considering surgery. Our goal is to help you maintain the best possible quality of life—staying active, engaged, and doing the things that matter to you.
If arthritis is limiting your life, we'd be honored to help you find a better way forward.
Call us at (03) 7049 4468 or book online to schedule a consultation with one of our arthritis pain specialists. We're located at Monash House Private Hospital in Clayton, and we're ready to create a personalized treatment plan that helps you live well with arthritis.
You deserve more than just "living with it." Let's find solutions that work.
Metro Pain Group
Non-surgical arthritis pain management in Melbourne
Monash House Private Hospital, Clayton