Knee Pain

Many people experience knee pain at some point in their lives from injuries, sports activities, arthritis or a variety of other causes. Because our day-to-day living requires mobility, knee problems can be debilitating. There is, however, an excellent continuum of treatment options, ranging from physical therapy, stretching and braces to minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery, total joint replacement and other procedures. Our EOG orthopaedic surgeons can provide an accurate diagnosis of your condition and design an appropriate treatment plan to address the problem and relieve your pain.

 

Common causes of knee pain

 

Arthritis

Osteoarthritis of the knee is an affliction that affects many people. It occurs when the cartilage is damaged and wears, causing bones to rub together. Symptoms can include pain, stiffness, swelling and noise in the joint when moving. It can be quite painful and debilitating, negatively affecting quality of life. While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, effective treatments exist. Loss of excessive weight, heat and ice, rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatories, topical medications and other options are available. In some cases, arthroscopic surgery (a minimally invasive procedure requiring a few small incisions), conventional surgery or total knee replacement are the best courses of treatment. Most patients have very good results, significantly reducing pain and regaining function.

Ligament injuries

Damage to the knee ligaments typically occurs in athletes, physical laborers and other people who put excessive stress on their knees. They include the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL). Extreme pain and instability usually accompany these strains or tears. Treatment ranges from rest, icing, wrapping and physical therapy to surgery in more severe injuries.

Cartilage (meniscus) injuries

Sudden twisting of the knee or long-term wear can tear the meniscus, cartilage that cushions the knee joint. The resulting uneven surface irritates the joint, causing pain, inflammation, a “catching” feeling and loss of function. Meniscus tears typically require surgery, combined with physical therapy during recovery. This treatment produces excellent results for most patients.

Kneecap pain

When the underside of the kneecap (patella) becomes irritated from overuse or other causes, a condition called patellofemoral syndrome occurs. If the kneecap becomes misaligned and rubs against the top of the thigh bone (femur), inflammation can be accompanied by pain and reduced function. Treatment options include rest, icing, anti-inflammatories, physical therapy and surgery if the condition is advanced.

Bursitis

People who kneel frequently or for long periods (gardeners, carpet layers, etc.) can develop bursitis, an inflammation of the bursa, a thin fluid-filled sack that cushions the knee’s internal components. Treatment usually calls for discontinuation of the irritating activity and rest. In some situations, it may be necessary to drain the bursa, as well. If infection accompanies the condition, antibiotics will be prescribed by your physician.