Knee Pain

This article will explain the various causes of knee pain, ranging from medical conditions to injuries and overuse. Additionally, you’ll discover common symptoms accompanying knee pain, when to seek medical attention, methods for diagnosing knee issues, and available treatments. Understanding knee pain is crucial for maintaining optimal hip and knee health. By learning how to prevent knee pain and effectively relieve discomfort, individuals can lead active and fulfilling lives.

Are you looking for effective knee treatments? Call Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine in Granville and Coshocton, Ohio. Our expert team offers a range of surgical and non-surgical solutions, including knee arthroscopy, ACL repair, knee replacement (arthroplasty), and unicondylar knee resurfacing. Take the first step towards pain relief and book your appointment today!

Understanding Knee Pain

Sore knees are a common complaint, often stemming from minor issues like muscle strains or tendonitis to more serious conditions, such as arthritis. As individuals age, the likelihood of experiencing knee pain increases, particularly among those who are overweight or have a history of injuries.

While some cases of knee pain can be managed with rest and home remedies, persistent or severe discomfort may necessitate professional evaluation and treatment.

Conditions That Can Cause Knee Pain

The conditions that cause knee pain vary and can be caused by any of the tissues that make up and surround the knee joint. Knee injuries, such as ligament tears, and knee problems, like patellofemoral pain syndrome, can contribute to persistent knee pain. Additionally, conditions like torn cartilage and bursitis can exacerbate discomfort.

Common conditions that cause knee pain can include the following:

  • Arthritis, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus or gout
  • Baker cyst, a type of swelling behind the knee often caused by arthritis
  • Bursitis refers to inflammation of the bursa in the knee due to repetitive pressure or trauma
  • Cancers of the bone
  • Dislocated kneecap
  • Torn ligament (anterior cruciate ligament injuries are the most common causing an unstable knee)
  • Torn cartilage
  • Fractures
  • Iliotibial band syndrome
  • Osgood-Schlatter disease, a painful swelling just below the knee
  • Patellofemoral syndrome
  • Strains or sprains
A woman experiencing knee pain in Newark, Ohio.

When to See a Doctor for Knee Pain

A sore knee can usually be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Knee braces can also provide support when there is mild knee pain. However, there are some instances of knee pain where you should seek medical help. You should see a doctor if:

  • You have severe pain in your knee
  • There is swelling in your knee
  • Symptoms continue for more than two weeks
  • You can’t bend your knee
  • It’s difficult to put weight on your knee
  • You have painful knee locking or clicking, or it gives way

Diagnosing a Knee Injury

Diagnosing the underlying cause of knee pain typically involves a combination of patient history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. While many cases can be diagnosed based on clinical findings, imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may be recommended to confirm suspicions or assess the extent of damage.

Treatments Available for Knee Pain

At Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, our team of orthopedic surgeons offers several different types of treatments for knee pain. We provide non-surgical and surgical treatments to help relieve pain, allowing you to get back to an active life. Some of the treatments we offer are described below.

Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses a small camera and tiny instruments to perform joint surgery. Our knee surgeons use arthroscopy to perform various arthroscopic knee repairs, including ligament repairs and meniscus repair or resection.

ACL Repair

ACL repair or reconstruction is usually performed as an arthroscopic procedure. This procedure repairs a torn ACL.

The surgeon will usually take a tendon graft from either your hamstring or patella to add strength to the ACL. The tendon is then attached to bones in the knee with surgical screws or buttons. An ACL repair can help restore stability and function to the knee.

Knee Replacement (Arthroplasty)

At Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, we can provide various knee replacement procedures, including total knee replacement, partial knee replacement, and revision knee replacement.

A total knee replacement replaces all joint surfaces within the knee joint. During total knee replacement surgery, the damaged bone and cartilage are removed from your knee. The joint surfaces are then replaced using metal and plastic components. The replacement has a similar function to a healthy knee, allowing you to get back to your regular activities.

A partial knee replacement may be used if arthritis or injury has only damaged one side (or compartment) of your knee joint. During this procedure, your knee surgeon will remove and replace just the damaged tissue. At Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, we use the Oxford implant, which often lasts longer than traditional components.

A revision knee replacement is a procedure to correct or repair a failed or worn-out previous knee replacement. First, the existing prosthetics, along with any damaged tissue, are removed by the surgeon. Then, new parts are placed in position.

Unicondylar Knee Resurfacing

Unicondylar knee resurfacing corrects damage that has affected just one component of the knee. This procedure can be used in place of a total knee replacement when just one area of the knee needs treatment.

Key Takeaways About Knee Pain

Knee pain can result from various factors, including arthritis, bursitis, ligament tears, fractures, and tendon inflammation. At Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, we offer a comprehensive range of treatments for knee pain, including knee arthroscopy, ACL repair, knee replacement surgeries, physical therapy, and personalized care plans tailored to individual needs, ensuring optimal outcomes and improved mobility.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Are you ready to take control of your knee pain and get back to living life to the fullest? Contact Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine in Granville and Coshocton, OH, today to schedule your consultation with one of our expert knee surgeons.

Our experienced team, which includes skilled knee replacement surgeons, is dedicated to providing personalized care and effective treatments to help you achieve optimal knee health. Don’t let knee pain hold you back any longer—reach out now and start your journey towards relief and recovery with the help of our trusted knee specialists!

Medically reviewed by Alex Tancevski, MD