Let's discuss two professional athletes that had recently knee surgery. The first, NFL's Cleveland Browns rookie running back Montario Hardesty had knee surgery for a torn anterior cruciate ligament according to NBC sports.com.

Knee surgery along with physical therapy and a knee brace for a torn ACL are usually the best treatment choices to restore full function and help prevent early knee arthritis. The second, Mario Balotelli, a soccer striker for Manchester City underwent knee surgery for a torn lateral meniscus ( knee cartilage damage) reported the Daily Mail UK.

His club's statement showed excellent medical judgement," The Italian's injury is to the lateral meniscus, one of the two most crucial structures in the knee, and medical wisdom is to try and encourage the problem to heal without recourse to an operation."

Unfortunately for Mario, his knee pain failed to improve with 6 weeks of knee rehabilitation and required surgery for partial meniscectomy. Both pros had the right and appropriate knee surgery for their injuries.

Do you need surgery for knee pain relief? It depends on the structure damaged, whether you're a suitable surgical candidate and the type of knee injury. Here are some general surgery guidelines including conservative non-surgical treatment options for you based on your knee diagnosis: Knee Surgery Guidelines

Warning! - Do not get Micro-Fracture Surgery. The clinical results have been poor. The author had one and would not recommend it.

Please always have your knee examined, diagnosed and treated by a qualified medical professional. Hope that helps you find the answer to your knee pain.