Knee pain is an extremely common symptom that can result from everything from a temporary injury to a chronic condition like arthritis. You can usually treat knee pain at home with rest and over-the-counter medicine. Visit a healthcare provider if you’ve experienced an injury or have knee pain for more than a few days in a row. I remember early on in my career (22 years ago) when “hyper” mobility was considered a bad thing. But since then, both research and experience have proven me wrong.
Knee joint pain can be a common and debilitating issue for many people, whether it is caused by injury, overuse, or underlying medical conditions. The knee joint is one of the largest and most complex joints in the body, consisting of bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage that work together to provide stability and support.
The decision to try knee injections should be made in concert with a knowledgeable doctor and with the understanding that they may not work. In the next few years, researchers predict that more effective knee injections and effective regenerative injections will likely be refined or discovered. To help you wade (knee-deep) through the confusing world of injections, here’s a rundown of the most common kinds of shots and what the experts say about them. Two other types — PRP and stem cell injections — are not fully approved by the Food and Drug Administration and are regarded as experimental by insurance companies. Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts.
Knee arthroscopy is the most common type of knee surgery. Your surgeon will make a few small incisions (cuts) in the skin around your knee then insert a special tool called an arthroscope into your knee joint. The arthroscope includes a camera and a light that lets your surgeon see and repair damage inside your knee. There are several possible causes of knee joint pain, which makes early identification important in ruling out any potentially serious underlying conditions. There are a number of conditions that can cause joint pain aside from an injury, such as arthritis or overuse. Injuries from falls and direct blows to the knee may also cause joint pain.
Knee pain with these symptoms needs the attention of a doctor for correct diagnosis and treatment. Rheumatoid arthritis benefits from early treatment. The knee bends and straightens smoothly because of the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones in the healthy joint.
It commonly affects teenagers, especially young female athletes. It is the most common overuse syndrome in sportspeople. People with joint pain can benefit from activities such as water aerobics, as this puts little strain on the knees. A person can contact a doctor when their knee pain does not go away within a few weeks.
Your surgeon will replace your knee joint with an artificial implant (a prosthesis). Your provider might recommend a knee replacement if pain and other symptoms in your knee affect your ability to stand, walk and move. Your surgeon will suggest either a total knee replacement or a partial knee replacement.
Causes of Knee Joint Pain
One of the most common causes of knee joint pain is osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition that occurs when the cartilage in the knee wears down over time, causing pain and inflammation. Other causes of knee joint pain include injuries such as ligament tears, meniscus tears, and fractures, as well as overuse injuries from activities like running or jumping.
Treatment Options for Knee Joint Pain
There are several treatment options available for knee joint pain, depending on the cause and severity of the pain. For mild cases, rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) may help alleviate pain and swelling. Physical therapy exercises can also help strengthen the muscles around the knee to provide more support and stability.
For more severe cases of knee joint pain, medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and pain. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damaged cartilage or ligaments in the knee.
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider if you are experiencing persistent knee joint pain, as early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further damage and improve your quality of life. By understanding the causes and treatment options for knee joint pain, you can take steps to manage your symptoms and get back to doing the activities you love.
