Treating Knee Pain
Knee pain is one of the most common complaints that people of all ages experience. Ranging from minor to more serious, knee pain can result from medical conditions like arthritis, infection and gout. Injuries like torn cartilage, an ACL tear or a ruptured ligament can also cause knee pain.
How Can Knee Pain Be Diagnosed
Other symptoms that might you might also experience in addition to knee pain include unusual noises like crunching or popping, instability, redness, weakness, swelling. While there are some cases when knee pain can be treated, there are instances when you should see an orthopedic specialist for a correct diagnosis.
The doctor will begin the diagnosis with a physical exam. Several components are likely to be included such as a thorough inspection of your knee to determine if there is tenderness, swelling, pain, visible bruising and warmth. The doctor will likely also check the movement of your lower leg in different directions and evaluate the knee’s integrity by pushing or pulling on the joint.
The orthopedic specialist might also recommend that you have certain imaging tests. X-rays, an ultrasound, a computerized tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) might be suggested to definitely diagnose the cause of your knee pain. Lab tests, including blood work, will likely be ordered if inflammation or an infection is suspected.
Treating Knee Pain
Effectively treating knee pain will depend on the exact cause. Certain medications could be prescribed to address the pain and treat any conditions, like gout or rheumatoid arthritis, that could be causing it.
Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles that surround and support the knee. It might also be helpful when increasing your balance and flexibility. There also could be movement patterns that need to be corrected to help prevent pain in the future.
Your physician might recommend that you receive injections directly into your knee as a way of treating the pain. Some common medications used for this purpose include corticosteroids, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and hyaluronic acid.
Surgery could be required for certain types of injuries, such as those caused by car accidents, or medical conditions. Arthroscopic surgery involves the use of a small camera and tools that are inserted through small incisions.
A partial or total knee replacement is also a common surgery. During a partial knee replacement, only the most damaged parts of your knee are removed and replaced. A total knee replacement requires removing the entire knee joint before replacing it with an artificial one.
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Certain medications can treat the pain and potentially address any conditions.
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Physical therapy is a great option because they can help you strengthen muscles surrounding and supporting the knee.
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A physician may also recommend an injection that can also help treat pain.
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Surgery may be required, depending on the surgery but you will be in great hands!
How an Orthopedic Specialist Can Help
An orthopedic specialist is an invaluable resource for treating knee pain. From minor injuries like torn cartilage to facilitating your knee surgery, an orthopedic surgeon offers precise expertise designed to increase your mobility, reduce your pain and get your life back on track.
Cameron Hospital’s Orthopedics Clinic is fully equipped to diagnose and treat your knee pain. Our specialists are here to help you find the relief you need. Learn more about how we can do so by scheduling an appointment or contacting us today.
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