Good afternoon . Answers to your questions in the order asked :-
1 surgical option is decided after MRI and X-ray is evaluated . The way you are describing it seems like A ligament or more are damaged or torn in your knee which requires arthroscopic surgery for repair .
2 you can with a brace
3 yes medications help relive pain and inflammation
Next Steps
Needs to be Clinically and radiologically evaluated by your local orthopedic to come to a diagnosis and decide the further line of treatment .
Health Tips
MRI is advisable if X-ray seems normal .