The quadriceps and hamstring muscles prent over the knee joint and provide support.

The decision to escalate treatment is dependant on the individual and their pain levels, their knowledge of the condition, and the advice of medical professionals. Once the pain becomes unmanageable with non-prescription medication, a medical practitioner needs to be consulted as each persons' personal medical history affects which of the higher classes of drugs are suitable and safe to use. In order to provide informed consent, one must first possess sufficient knowledge of the procedure in question, including the intended benefits and potential risks. As the symptoms grow in severity, the treatment also becomes more serious with a variety of surgical interventions considered. When the disease process is in its kendell stages and symptoms are mild, treatment usually consists of analgesia and a conservative program of weight loss and physical therapy. Osteoarthritis of the Knee - Treatment Options Treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee can take a variety of forms, from exercise and bracing, to pharmacological and surgical options. Typical medications include non-steroidal anti-inflammatories and low doses of opioids such as codeine.

The following summarizes the different treatment options.