After any knee problem, it’s important to get movement and strength back. This supports tissue healing and will help you get moving again. You do not need to be symptom free before you consider returning to work. Continuing to go to work, or returning to work as soon as is possible for you, will help your recovery.
Are you experiencing knee pain in the UK? You are not alone. Knee pain is a common issue that affects people of all ages. From athletes to office workers, knee pain can be debilitating and impact your daily life. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for knee pain in the UK.
Causes of Knee Pain
Lots of conditions can cause knee problems so the treatment and management options that are best for you will depend on what’s caused your knee pain. Treatments include self-help (for example, resting your leg and using ice packs), physiotherapy, medicines and surgery. But some knee injuries and medical conditions, such as osteoarthritis, can lead to increasing pain, joint damage and disability if left untreated. And having a knee injury — even a minor one — makes it more likely that you’ll have similar injuries in the future. If your knee pain hasn’t improved within 6 weeks of following this advice, it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional about your symptoms.
Ice pack/frozen peas wrapped in a damp cloth, placed on the swollen area for up to 20 minutes at a time, 3 times a day. So long as there is swelling you will need to continue ice therapy, often beyond the third week. The pain can be particularly strong in the first three weeks as this is the inflammatory phase of your body healing itself. Typically, these injuries last 4 to 6 weeks depending on the severity. Minor injuries to the knee, such as a mild sprain or strain should settle with time and can be managed at home.
Your knee is one of the joints that’s most commonly affected. But it can be a claustrophobic and lengthy experience, which some people find uncomfortable. You might not be able to have an MRI scan if you have a pacemaker or some other devices or metal implants, but some hospitals have the facilities for this. Let your doctor and radiographer know if you think you have any medical devices or implants. However, you should generally apply heat or ice for up to 15 minutes.
Surgery or injections into the knee are not recommended as a treatment for most types of knee pain. This is because people often recover as well, or better, with non-invasive treatments. Knee pain can affect your mood, especially if it lasts a long time, and feeling low can make your pain worse.
There are several factors that can contribute to knee pain. Some of the most common causes include:
Your doctor will explain the risks and benefits of these investigations in more depth and answer any questions you have. Your GP will usually refer you to another healthcare service, depending on what they suspect the problem may be. In some situations, they’ll refer you to a specialist urgently.
- Arthritis
- Injuries such as ligament tears or meniscus tears
- Overuse or strain from physical activities
- Obesity
- Age-related wear and tear
Symptoms of Knee Pain
The symptoms of knee pain can vary depending on the underlying cause. Some common symptoms include:
- Pain or discomfort while walking or standing
- Swelling or stiffness in the knee joint
- Popping or cracking sounds when moving the knee
- Limited range of motion
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Knee Pain
There are several treatment options available for knee pain. Some common treatments include:
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility
- Medications to reduce pain and inflammation
- Injections such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid
- Surgery in severe cases
It is essential to work with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and concerns.
Don’t let knee pain hold you back. Seek help from a healthcare professional to get the relief you need and improve your quality of life.
