Knee Pain: When Should You See an Orthopedic Specialist?
Knee pain is one of the most experienced discomforts in humans and is likely to affect any age group. It may be a dull, constant pain, or it may be a sharp, disruptive discomfort that alters your day.
What is knee pain?
Knee pain is a prevalent discomfort experienced in or around the knee joint, ranging from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain. It can stem from various factors, such as injuries, overuse, arthritis, and other medical conditions.
Symptoms of Knee Pain
There are several signs that can indicate knee pain. Here are some common ones:
- Aching or stiffness in the knee joint
- Swelling or redness around the knee
- Difficulty bending or straightening the knee
- Popping or clicking sounds during movement
- Instability or weakness in the knee
- Difficulty walking or climbing stairs
Types of Knee Injuries
Several types of injuries can cause knee pain. Here are a few common ones:
Ligament sprains:
Damage to the tough bands connecting your shinbone, thighbone, and kneecap.
Meniscus tears:
Tears in the cartilage that cushions your knee joint.
Tendonitis:
Inflammation of the tendons surrounding your knee joint.
Bursitis:
Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs cushioning your knee joint.
Risk Factors for Knee Pain
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing knee pain, including:
Age:
As you age, the cartilage in your knee naturally wears down.
Weight:
Excess weight puts additional stress on your knee joints.
Activity level:
Repetitive activities that put stress on your knees, like running or jumping, can increase your risk.
Previous injuries:
Past knee injuries can make you more susceptible to future problems.
medical conditions:
Conditions like arthritis or gout can contribute to knee pain.
When Should You See an Orthopedic Specialist at Orthos Centre?
If your knee pain is severe, persistent, or worsens with activity, it is important to consult an orthopedic specialist at the Orthos Centre. They can diagnose the underlying cause of your pain and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment for knee pain
Knee Pain Treatment at Orthos Centre
Orthos Centre, a leading provider of knee pain treatment in Pune, offers a comprehensive range of treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Here are some potential approaches:
Physical Therapy:
Resting the affected knee and participating in physical therapy exercises can often alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Medication:
Anti-inflammatory medications or pain relievers can help manage pain and inflammation.
Injections:
Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation in the knee joint.
Surgery:
People who have severe knee pain or whose knee discomfort does not improve with conservative approaches like rest, therapy, or drugs may need surgery. Some of these treatments include the reshaping of malformed joints, and the reconstruction of injured ligaments, tendons, or cartilage. Surgical operations for ligament reconstruction, like the ACL reconstruction, are undertaken with the vision of stabilizing the knee. Tendon operations, such as patellar tendon repair, can help alleviate discomfort in the long run and stabilize joints. Microfracture and cartilage transplant are actions to treat cartilage defects since certain areas of the cartilage may need to be repaired or replaced. Surgery remains the final option when the previous methods are not effective, and the goal of treatment is to enhance quality of life through rehabilitation and pain relief.
Knee pain is a treatable condition. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options available at Orthos Centre, you can take control of your knee health and get back to enjoying an active life. Remember, early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing long-term complications.