They’re usually made of stiff plastic or metal with cushions and straps that wrap around your knee and leg. Your provider will tell you which type of brace you’ll need and how often you should wear it. Most people can take over-the-counter NSAIDs (ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®). Don’t take these medications for more than 10 days in a row without talking to your provider or if you have kidney or liver disease.
In older adults, degenerative changes of the knee can contribute to a torn meniscus with little or no trauma. Most people have stage 4 arthritis when they get surgery. Experts have identified some genes that might cause arthritis, including arthritis of the knee. They predict that there are more genes not yet discovered.
Feeling knee pain can be a frustrating and debilitating experience, impacting your ability to perform daily activities and affecting your overall quality of life. Whether the pain is sharp, dull, constant, or intermittent, it is essential to address the underlying causes to find relief and prevent further discomfort.
A healthcare provider will suggest treatments based on the pain’s severity and its cause. Patellar tendinopathy, or jumper’s knee, happens when the patellar tendon develops small tears. Jumpers tend to experience this type of knee pain as jumping puts stress on the patellar or quadriceps tendon. If a person has burning pain on the side of the knee, it could be due to iliotibial band syndrome or pes anserine bursitis. Treatment for meniscal tears depends on the size and location of the tear. Sometimes small tears heal on their own with the proper self-care.
Side knee pain has several possible causes, most commonly osteoarthritis or tear and sprain injuries. The pain can affect the inner (medial) side of the knee or the outer (lateral) side. A specific type of infection, called septic arthritis or infectious arthritis, can cause pain in specific joints. Septic arthritis occurs when an infection from elsewhere in the body spreads to the joint or the fluid surrounding the joint. Most often, this type of infection is caused by staph bacteria, which live on the skin.
Causes of Knee Pain
PRP injections are developed by extracting blood from a person, then separating out the plasma, which is rich in platelets, from other parts through centrifugation. The concentration of platelets in the new mixture can be 5 to 10 times richer than in normal blood. Researchers say the shots promote healing and lessen inflammation, which should reduce pain and swelling.
Knee pain can stem from various factors, including injury, overuse, arthritis, or underlying medical conditions. Common causes of knee pain include ligament tears, meniscus injuries, tendonitis, bursitis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and patellar dislocation. Identifying the specific cause of your knee pain is crucial in determining the most effective treatment approach.
Treatment Options
Once the cause of your knee pain has been identified, there are several treatment options available to help alleviate discomfort and improve mobility. Depending on the severity and nature of your condition, treatment may include rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), physical therapy, medication, corticosteroid injections, or surgery. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Prevention Strategies
While knee pain can be challenging to manage, there are several preventive measures you can take to reduce your risk of experiencing discomfort. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, performing strengthening exercises, avoiding high-impact activities, wearing supportive footwear, and practicing proper body mechanics can help protect your knees from injury and pain. Incorporating these strategies into your daily routine can promote long-term joint health and function.
Conclusion
Dealing with knee pain can be a significant obstacle, but with proper understanding, treatment, and prevention, you can effectively manage your symptoms and improve your overall well-being. By addressing the root cause of your knee pain and implementing appropriate interventions, you can regain comfort, mobility, and peace of mind. Remember to prioritize your joint health and seek professional guidance when needed to ensure a successful recovery.
