Other types of anti-inflammatory painkillers do need a prescription. NSAIDs carry a number of potential side effects, so you should ask your doctor or pharmacist if they are suitable for you before taking them. You can also read the patient information leaflet that comes in the packet. Low-impact exercise, such as cycling and swimming, can be useful when recovering from a knee injury. The pain might feel worse at the end of the day, or when you move your knee, and it might improve when you rest.
If your pain isn’t significant, you can try to diagnose and treat it at home by paying attention to the specific symptoms you have. However, if home treatments don’t seem to work, make sure to consult with a medical professional. Chondromalacia is specific to the kneecaps and is caused by a breakdown of cartilage. It’s most common in athletes, such as runners, as well as people born female. Gout is a common type of inflammatory arthritis that most often starts in your lower limbs, particularly the big toe. It’s caused by a buildup of uric acid in the body, which may then lead to the development of crystals within the affected joints.
Chronic knee pain can be a debilitating condition that affects many people around the world. It can be caused by a variety of factors such as injury, overuse, arthritis, or other medical conditions. Whatever the cause, living with chronic knee pain can greatly impact one’s quality of life and daily activities.
Along with a rapid onset of pain and swelling, you might also experience fever and chills. Sports injury prevention isn’t a one-stop shop, especially for injuries like ACL tears, which are four to eight times more common among women than men. Discover ways for women to help prevent this common injury. If initial treatment methods do not provide relief, and X-rays show destruction of the joint, the orthopaedist may recommend total joint replacement for the knee, also referred to as knee replacement. The knee is a vulnerable joint that bears a great deal of stress from everyday activities, such as lifting and kneeling, and from high-impact activities, such as jogging and aerobics. Most people can take over-the-counter NSAIDs (ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®).
Causes of Chronic Knee Pain
Which type of surgery you’ll need depends on what’s causing the pain and which parts of your knee are damaged. Your healthcare provider might suggest medications to relieve the knee pain and any other symptoms you’re experiencing. Physical activities, exercise, playing sports and doing physical work can all stress your knee joint. Doing the same repetitive motion (like jumping a lot, or working on your hands and knees) can cause knee pain. People with gout may experience knee pain, because gout causes uric acid crystals to build up in the joints.
There are several common causes of chronic knee pain including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ligament injuries, meniscus tears, and bursitis. These conditions can lead to inflammation, stiffness, and pain in the knee joint, making it difficult to walk, climb stairs, or engage in physical activities.
But unlike an acute injury that is sudden and causes immediate pain, overuse is an injury that happens over time and with which pain comes on slowly. Where you feel the pain can help identify what type of injury you have. For instance, if you feel pain at the back of your knee right after an injury, it might mean there’s something wrong with the ligaments, meniscus, tendons, or nerves in that area.
Treatment Options for Chronic Knee Pain
You could feel more pain first thing in the morning when you wake up. It’s also common to feel knee pain at night, especially if you were physically active earlier that day. Accidents, falls, and physical activities are common causes of traumatic knee injury. If the knee does not heal properly, chronic pain can result. Arch supports, sometimes with wedges on one side of the heel, can help shift pressure away from the side of the knee most affected by osteoarthritis. In certain conditions, different types of braces may be used to help protect and support the knee joint.
Fortunately, there are several treatment options available for managing chronic knee pain. These may include physical therapy, medication, injections, bracing, or in severe cases, surgery. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your specific condition.
In addition to traditional treatments, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding high-impact activities, and practicing good posture can also help alleviate chronic knee pain. It is also important to listen to your body and not push through pain, as this can exacerbate the problem.
Living with chronic knee pain can be challenging, but with proper management and care, it is possible to improve your symptoms and regain mobility. By working closely with your healthcare team and following their recommendations, you can take control of your knee pain and live a more comfortable, active life.
