Who To See For Knee Pain

Your Pain Doesnt Go Away

Many doctors recommend treating injuries like knee sprains or knee bruises with the RICE method at home.

The RICE method is rest, ice, compression, and elevation.

You can also use over-the-counter medications to help with pain and discomfort, but this should only be a temporary fix.

If none of this works to alleviate any of your knee symptoms, a doctors visit may be in order.

Severe pain or pain that wont go away could indicate a torn muscle, torn cartilage, or even a torn meniscus.

None of these knee injuries will get better without a doctors intervention.

How Is The Cause Of Knee Pain Diagnosed

A thorough examination is necessary for an accurate determination. The examination should include an assessment of whether the pain actually stems from the knee. Sometimes knee pain can be referred pain from another source, such as a hip injury. ââ¬ÅReferred painââ¬ï¿½ means that an injury or disease in one part of the body is causing pain in a different location.

When making a diagnosis, your doctor will consider information that includes the following:

• Patient characteristics. Some conditions are more likely to occur in individuals with certain characteristics. For example, osteoarthritis is more frequent in older adults, and conditions associated with overuse are more frequent in people who participate in athletic activities. Obesity can also be a factor in some conditions.
• Patient history. The physician asks questions to determine potential sources of trauma, such as car accidents or sports injuries. The physician will also ask where and when you feel the pain.
• Results of a physical examination. The physician moves and probes your knee for signs of damage to the muscle, tendon, or cartilage. This includes exploring the location of the pain, such as behind the knee, in front of the knee, or inside of or on top of the knee.
• Results of imaging and other tests. Sometimes X-rays, MRIs, or other diagnostic tests are needed to identify structural damage or abnormalities.

What Are The Causes Of Knee Pain

Some causes are obvious such as tearing of ligaments or cartilage because of trauma at work or sport. However, one of the common causes of discomfort is anterior knee pain. Often patients are told that their knee is normal on an MRI scan or isnt severe enough to require surgery. It can be disheartening to hear that you have to give up sport or running because of this complaint. So, knee pain requires you to see a knee specialist.

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What Type Of Doctor Should I See For My Knee Injury

If you suffer a knee injury, should you go to an emergency room or urgent care center, your primary care doctor, or to an orthopedic surgeon? In this Ask Dr. Geier video, I discuss your options if youre dealing with a nagging knee problem that isnt getting better.

Bridget asks:A few days ago, as I was walking in the street, my left leg locked on me twice. At that time, I experienced excruciating pain in my knee. Since then my leg has locked a few times while walking, and the pain is constant at the top of my knee when I try to straighten it out. When it is bent, I do not have pain. I do not have any swelling, just pain and locking. I also feel off balance. Do you think that I should see my GP first instead of an orthopedic surgeon? Or should I just go to see the surgeon for an evaluation?

There are many benefits to seeing your primary care doctor first, even if it is for a bone or joint injury. First, many insurance companies require patients to see their doctor and get a referral. Plus they know you, and you have a long relationship with you. And you might be able to see your personal doctor very quickly.

On the other hand, they are not as familiar with evaluation of musculoskeletal injuries as orthopedic surgeons. In this video, I discuss some of the potential drawbacks of seeing your primary care doctor first and when you might consider trying to see an orthopedic surgeon first.

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Can Knee Pain Come Back After Treatment

Frequently, knee pain will occur for a short period of time and then resolve. Sometimes it can return a few weeks or months later. For chronic knee pain, it is important to get it evaluated to avoid further damage to cartilage, bones, or ligaments. Prognosis depends on the underlying causes of the pain.

With modern surgical techniques, it’s possible to relieve many of the knee pain syndromes and return to an active lifestyle.

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Alternate Heat And Cold Therapy

Besides the RICE method, another knee pain remedy is alternately applying a heating pad and a cold compress. As mentioned earlier, a cold compress helps reduce inflammation. A heating pad, in contrast, helps relieve the pain.

Alternately apply the heating pad and cold compress a couple of times a day for a maximum of 15 to 20 minutes per application. Whether you use a hot or cold compress, remember to wrap a towel around your knee.

Potential Causes For Knee Pain

Knee Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and is frequently seen in the knees. It is generally a result of wear and tear and age. Women 55 and older are more likely to develop knee osteoarthritis than men. Osteoarthritis can also be the result of genetics and is seen in patients who are overweight. Furthermore, it is more likely to occur in those constantly lifting heavy weights or athletes who have had knee injuries.

Treatment for osteoarthritis focuses on reducing pain and regaining mobility. If the patient is overweight, your doctor may first recommend weight loss. Exercise will also help strengthen the joint. Your doctor may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or recommend injections or a brace. We believe in conservative treatment, so while Mountainstate Orthopedic Associates has some of the most qualified and experienced doctors in the region, surgery is usually a last resort. There is no need to operate if, for example, the knee responds well to physical therapy and corticosteroid injection.

Knee Effusion

A knee effusion occurs when fluid increases in the tissues surrounding the joint. It can happen to any joint but is particularly common in the knee. A knee effusion can result from anything that injures or inflames the knee. Knee effusions are often seen in those with arthritis . Gout can also cause knee effusion.

ACL Strain or Tear

Meniscus Tear

Knee Bursitis

Patellar Tendonitis

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Effective Care From Skilled Professionals

You should never ignore signs your health is in decline, including signs from our joints and muscles. Our bodys joints play a major role in how well we can get around on a daily basis. When there is a problem in the knee, you may experience pain, swelling, or discomfort. If the pain worsens, you should seek immediate medical help. At Premier Pain Centers, our Richardson physicians can effectively diagnose and treat the causes of your knee pain, so your quality of life is not compromised.

Schedule your appointment by dialing or completing ouronline form today.

Dr Soffer: The Best Reading Pa Doctor To See For Knee Pain

If youre experiencing persistent knee pain and youre ready to find a solution, Dr. Stephen Soffer is a trustworthy choice for your care. Rated as one of the top orthopedic surgeons in the nation, Dr. Soffer is dedicated to helping patients in the Reading, PA area get back to feeling their best.

When you select him as your doctor to see for knee pain, Dr. Soffer will use the most advanced, minimally invasive treatment methods possible to provide you with an individualized solution to resolve your knee pain and any other symptoms.

If youre interested in scheduling an appointment with Dr. Soffer, please call our office at 610-375-4949. We look forward to helping you manage your knee pain so that you can return to living your life and doing what you love.

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What Is Knee Pain

Pain is a common knee problem that can originate in any of the bony structures compromising the knee joint , the kneecap , or the ligaments, tendons, and cartilage of the knee. Knee pain can be aggravated by physical activity, as well as obesity, affected by the surrounding muscles and their movements, and be triggered by other problems . Knee pain can affect people of all ages, and home remedies can be helpful unless it becomes severe.

When To Call The Doctor For Knee Pain

When you are deciding whether to call the doctor about your knee pain, a good rule of thumb exists for most long-term knee injuries. If your symptoms have not gone away after trying a week of PRICE therapy and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain meds, you should set up an appointment with your doctor, physical therapist, or a sports medicine orthopaedic specialist to further evaluate the pain. This rule can also be applied to new knee injuries that are not disabling. Remember, however, that this rule should only serve as a guide. If you are concerned about the pain, you should call the doctor.

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What Treatments Does A Knee Specialist Recommend

Most causes of anterior knee pain are due to biomechanical factors that require a comprehensive rehab program incorporating other disciplines including physiotherapy, podiatry, and strength and conditioning.

Sometimes, anterior knee pain may be due to kneecap arthritis or fat pad impingement. Generally, both of these conditions need specialised treatment.

In addition, Dr Masci is a specialist in the management of a common knee complaint called patellar tendinopathy or jumpers knee. Patellar tendinopathy occurs in younger individuals who participate in jumping or change of direction sports including football, rugby, and athletics. Managing patellar tendinopathy or jumpers knee is challenging and requires a comprehensive rehab program such as heavy loading at the gym and extras to exercise including shockwave therapy, GTN patches or an ultrasound-guided injection. Dr Masci has published a paper on stem cell and PRP injections in patellar tendinopathy. Often, an MSK ultrasound is useful to confirm the diagnosis of patellar tendinopathy or jumpers knee.

Another common knee complaint is arthritis of the knee joint most cases of knee arthritis do not need surgery and improve with exercise therapy combined with other treatments including medication and/or injections. Dr Masci has expertise in the non-surgical treatment of arthritis of the knee such as PRP injections. This recent blog discusses evidence for PRP injections in knee osteoarthritis.

Possible Causes Of Pain

Quadriceps tendonitis this is caused by the irritation, strain or injury to the quadriceps tendon.

Patellofemoral Arthritis

This affects the underside of the kneecap and the trochlear groove in the femur in which it moves. When the articular cartilage covering the surfaces of the bone wears away and becomes inflamed the bones come into contact with each other resulting in pain.

Plica Syndrome

A plica is the fold in the thin synovial membrane that lines the knee joint. There were four of these folds in the knee joint originally, but they often become absorbed during foetal development. About 50% of the population is thought to have the remains of the embryonic plicae. When a plica becomes inflamed, perhaps because of repetitive knee movement, trauma or twisting, it causes pain and weakness in the knee.

Lateral patellar facet overload syndrome

This refers to dull aching pain underneath, around the sides or below kneecap. It is caused by increased pressure on the lateral facet of the patella. The reason for this is improper tracking, poor alignment or dislocation of the kneecap. The condition is often apparent during repetitive exercise such as climbing stairs.

Synovitis

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Foot Pain Doctors And Foot Care Specialists Defined

When itâs time to see a medical provider for your foot pain, you want to go to the right one. Knowing whether to choose a podiatrist vs an orthopedist or a podiatrist vs a chiropractor comes down to understanding what each of them does and hwo they treat their patients:

• Podiatrist. A Certified Doctor of Podiatric Medicine , or podiatrist, is not an MD but has been trained to address all issues of the foot and ankle. They can provide surgical and medicinal treatments and may provide recommendations for other foot care providers as well.
• Orthopedist. Also known as an orthopedic surgeon, an orthopedist is a physician who treats bone abnormalities through surgery as well as casting and bracing. They focus on musculoskeletal issues throughout the body, which can include but is not limited to the feet.
• Pedorthist. A pedorthist is a foot care specialist that focuses specifically on addressing foot conditions through footwear modifications and supportive devices like orthotics and insoles.
• Physical Therapist.A physical therapist is a licensed care provider who focuses on correcting issues through rehabilitative exercises and treatments.
• Chiropractor. A chiropractor focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of joint issues. Treatment provided is primarily through the manual adjustment or manipulation of joints and the spine.

Achieve A Healthier Weight

As the experts explain,excessive weight can put too much pressure on the knees. Whats even more concerning is that when the knees receive excessive pressure for extended periods, the risk of inflammation increases.

For this reason, it will be helpful to keep your weight at a healthy level. If youre having a hard time with your weight loss goals, talk to your doctor about how you can modify your diet and exercise.

Do take note that while these are common home remedies for knee pain, it may not be suitable for everyone. If in doubt, consult a doctor or therapist for a personalised treatment plan.

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What Other Symptoms May Be Associated With Knee Pain

If you have knee pain, you may get other symptoms such as:

• swelling, redness or heat in the knee
• bruising around the knee
• locking or clicking
• inability to straighten your knee

See a doctor if the pain doesnt improve in a few weeks, if you cant move your knee or put any weight on it, or if your knee locks or gives way.

Go to an emergency department if your knee is very painful, is badly swollen or has changed shape, or if you have a fever and a red and hot knee.

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When To See Your Doctor For Knee Pain

• Significant pain or swelling that does not improve within 48 hours
• Persistent tenderness or warmth around the joint
• Increasing swelling or redness around the joint

Seek immediate treatment at an urgent care or emergency room if you:

• Cant put weight on your knee or you feel your knee is going to give out
• Are unable to flex or fully extend your knee
• Heard a popping noise when your injury occurred
• See a deformity around the joint
• Have intense pain or sudden swelling

Also see a doctor if your knee discomfort, such as from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout, has worsened to the point previous treatments are no longer effective or you are unable to perform normal daily activities. Treatment will depend on the cause of your knee pain. Medication, physical therapy, cortisone injections, and braces or other supports all may help relieve your symptoms. Depending on your condition, joint replacement surgery may be an option as well.Dont Let Joint Pain Hold You BackFrom pain management and physical therapy, to surgery and rehabilitation, Virtua Health can help you get back in the game. Our board-certified and fellowship-trained sports medicine specialists and orthopedic surgeons guide your care from diagnosis to treatment, and beyond. Learn more about the Virtua Orthopedics & Spine program or call .

Physical Therapists: For Non

Like orthopedic doctors, physical therapists diagnose and treat injuries of the musculoskeletal system.

The difference is that PT treatment focuses on hands-on strategies, exercise, and education. They dont prescribe drugs or perform surgery.

A physio will also teach you the best way to manage your symptoms at home. Theyll also tell you how to prevent future pain episodes.

Physical therapy also specializes in human movement and pain management. This is useful when recovering from the following:

• Acute injuries like sprains or tears, regardless of their severity.
• Joint surgery, like knee replacement.
• Chronic diseases of the joints, including rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
• Neurologic conditions, like cerebral palsy, stroke, or Parkinsons disease.
• Pulmonary diseases, like COPD or cystic fibrosis.
• Sports injuries.

Visit a physical therapist if you have pain:

• That doesnt get better with home care.
• After a mild or moderate injury. Like a sprain or a strain.
• After physical activity. Or muscle aches during/after work.
• Without a fracture, a fever, an infection, or any other medical emergency.

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Placental Tissue Matrix Injections

Placental tissue matrices are derived from the placenta, an organ that develops during pregnancy to provide oxygen and nutrients to a developing fetus. The placenta sends nutrients to the growing baby via the umbilical cord and it is delivered from the body during childbirth, along with the baby.

• The placental tissue is obtained from a healthy mother who had a normal labor and delivery without complications.
• Once harvested, the placental tissue is cleansed and preserved.
• The placental cells contain a large amount of growth factors that promote healing.

Similar to PRP injections, injections of placental tissue matrix have been shown to help heal damaged cartilage cells and delay changes to the cartilage in osteoarthritis.

You may experience decreased pain and improved use of your knee within two to six weeks after receiving prolotherapy injections, with effects lasting up to one year.

Neither injections of PRP or PTM are recommended for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis by the American College of Rheumatology and Arthritis Foundation guidelines because there is limited evidence demonstrating overall effectiveness and there is a lack of standardization of treatment protocols.