If you are able to manage these areas, surgery may not be needed. However, you may also need to modify your current activities to avoid high level sport, hobby, or occupational demands of pivoting, cutting, jumping, etc. The first goal of treatment is to halt inflammation. Your physical therapist has a wide assortment of tools or modalities to help control pain and inflammation. In addition, you will likely be instructed to apply the rice principle several times a day as a home supplement to supervised visits.
Rest is best.
Protective rest is beneficial in the early stages of healing to give your body a chance to recover. Your brace may be locked at first to help you avoid painful movements. It is important not to overdo it during these early stages. This can include an ice bag or cold pack application. Simply place a bag of ice or commercial cold pack around the sore knee for up to 10 or 15-minute intervals.