What causes knee pain?
Your knees are large and complex joints that allow you to walk, run, and climb stairs. Knees are also prone to a variety of injuries, such as cartilage or ligament tears. Your knees are also a common site for arthritis to develop.
Several factors can increase your risk of developing knee pain, such as carrying excess body weight, having tight or weak muscles around the knee, or having a previous knee injury.
Certain sports and activities that put stress on your knees, such as basketball, skiing, and running, also increase your risk of knee pain.
What are common knee injuries?
Your knee joint contains cartilage, bones, ligaments, and tendons. Many common injuries damage these structures, including:
- Bone fractures
- Knee dislocation
- Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears
- Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) tears
- Collateral ligament tears
- Meniscus tears
- Knee bursitis
- Patellar tendinitis
- Loose bone or cartilage in the knee
In addition to injuries, the knee is susceptible to chronic (long-lasting) pain from various forms of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
When should I see a doctor for knee pain?
If your knee pain results from acute trauma, such as a fall or car accident, you should schedule an appointment at Regenerative Pain & Spine as soon as possible. Signs that your knee pain requires prompt medical care include:
- Hearing a popping noise at the time of injury
- Feeling your knee give out
- Severe knee pain and swelling
- Inability to bear weight on the knee
Dr. Mohiuddin recommends the best course of treatment based on factors such as the severity of your knee injury and your fitness level.
How do you diagnose and treat knee pain?
First, Dr. Mohiuddin performs a physical exam and reviews your symptoms and medical history. He may also take diagnostic tests, such as an X-ray or MRI.
Then, he creates a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific knee condition. Depending on your needs, your treatment may include:
- Immobilization in a brace or cast
- Medications to reduce pain and swelling
- Physical therapy
- Epidural injections
- Regenerative medicine
If you have a serious knee injury that doesn’t respond to these treatments, you may require surgery to restore function in your leg. If needed, Dr. Mohiuddin can refer you to a surgeon who specializes in ACL reconstruction and knee replacement procedures.
If you suffer from knee pain and want to find treatments, call Regenerative Pain & Spine or book an appointment online today.
