Knee pain can affect people of all ages. It is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of injuries and conditions, including strains and sprains, tendinitis, bursitis, arthritis, and torn ligaments. Learn about the causes and the effective treatments of knee pain that are available that can help alleviate symptoms, allowing you to get back to your normal activities, pain-free.
Symptoms and Causes of Knee Pain
Knee pain can be caused by many different factors, including overuse injuries from activities like running or jumping, direct trauma to the knee joint, misalignment in the hips and legs (which puts extra strain on the knees), medical conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, and weak muscles around the joint. People with underlying health problems such as diabetes are also more likely to suffer from chronic knee pain.
Depending on the underlying cause of the problem, knee pain may be accompanied by other symptoms. Generally, the most common symptoms include:
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Aching around the knee joint
- Weakness and instability
- Reduced function, such as an inability to bend or fully straighten the knee
In more severe cases, people may experience sharp pain with certain movements, as well as difficulty standing or walking. Other indications of a knee injury can include a clicking or popping sound at the time of injury.
Self-Treatment Options to Relieve Knee Pain
Although there are a variety of treatments available for knee pain, some injuries and causes of knee pain can be managed successfully with self-care at home. Self-treatment options include:
- Rest
- Applying ice to the injury
- Compression, such as with wraps or braces
- Keeping the knee elevated
- Over-the-counter medications to treat inflammation and pain
- Stretching exercises to improve flexibility
Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as losing weight (if necessary) or avoiding activities that cause discomfort can also help manage symptoms. By being aware of your body’s limitations and following these steps, you can help alleviate knee pain and may be able to avoid the need for invasive treatment methods in the future.
When to Visit a Doctor for Knee Pain
If you continue to experience knee pain or if you have an injury that is not responding to self-care, you should see a doctor for further investigation and to determine the most appropriate treatment. Orthopedic doctors have extensive training in utilizing the latest nonsurgical and surgical techniques to ensure patients receive the best treatment available, leading to successful outcomes.
To accurately diagnose your knee problem, your doctor will:
- Assess your medical history
- Discuss your symptoms and lifestyle choices
- Carry out a physical examination
Your doctor may also request diagnostic or imaging tests, such as an X-ray, CT scan, MRI, ultrasound, or a blood test, to help diagnose the cause of your knee pain.
Non-Invasive Treatments for Knee Pain Relief
Treatments for knee pain can vary depending on the cause of the pain. For instance, if the pain is caused by a strain or sprain, treatment may involve rest and physical therapy, while tendinitis may require anti-inflammatory medications.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can be an effective way to treat knee pain and help promote healing, strength, and flexibility. Physical therapists use a variety of treatments to relieve pain and inflammation, strengthen the muscles around the joint, and improve overall joint function. Treatments may include:
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
- Manual manipulation techniques
- Ice/heat therapies
- Ultrasound therapy
- Electrical stimulation
The goal of physical therapy is to provide relief from pain while also helping regain a normal range of motion in the affected area. Additionally, physical therapists may recommend lifestyle changes that may be contributing to knee pain, such as activity modifications or weight loss. With the right treatment plan tailored to your individual needs and goals, you can expect long-term relief from your knee pain.
PRP Therapy
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is an emerging treatment for knee pain that has been gaining traction in recent years. PRP therapy involves taking a sample of a patient’s blood, separating out and concentrating the platelets, and then injecting them into the affected joint. The concentrated platelets release growth factors that can help reduce inflammation and stimulate tissue regeneration. This helps speed up healing time and improve the overall function of the knee joint.
PRP therapy can be used to treat a variety of conditions, including tendonitis, arthritis, ligament injuries, cartilage damage, and more. It is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to surgery or steroid injections due to its low-risk profile and ability to provide long-lasting relief from pain and discomfort.
Prescribe FIT
Prescribe FIT is a virtual lifestyle health solution, designed specifically for orthopedic patients to decrease weight, reduce pain, improve mobility, and better prepare for and recover from surgery. The lifestyle program embraces the use of innovative technology to provide comprehensive and consistent care for patients. Prescribe FIT is proven to help you improve your health at home by focusing on the root cause of your knee pain or other joint issues.
Surgery as a Last Resort for Severe Cases of Knee Pain
Surgery is often seen as a last resort for relieving knee pain, but in more severe cases, it can be an effective option. Surgery may be used to help repair any damage in the joint, such as torn ligaments or cartilage, and correct misalignments of the hips and legs that are causing strain on the knee. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may need arthroscopic surgery or a more invasive procedure called open reconstruction. In either case, it’s important to discuss your options with your doctor, so you understand what type of procedure will best suit your needs.
Knee replacement surgery may be recommended for severely damaged joints to provide relief from chronic knee pain and improve quality of life. The procedure involves removing damaged bone and cartilage from the joint and replacing it with an artificial joint made of metal or plastic components. The goal of this type of surgery is to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore function in the affected knee. While there are risks associated with all surgical procedures, knee replacement surgery has been shown to be safe and effective for a majority of people who need it.
Painful Knee Treatment Near Me in Boynton Beach
If you have knee pain and are interested in finding out about which treatments can help you, contact Personalized Orthopedics of the Palm Beaches. Our team of experienced board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic physicians offers high-quality, personalized care and a range of cutting-edge non-surgical and surgical treatments to effectively treat your pain.
To find out more about our knee pain treatment services, call us today at (561) 733-5888. Alternatively, you can schedule an appointment using our secure online appointment request form.
