Knee pain can affect every aspect of your life, limiting mobility and disrupting daily activities. It is a common problem faced by people of all ages, caused by a variety of factors, including injury, arthritis, or overuse.
Fortunately, advancements in orthopedic care provide several effective solutions. Let us explore the top knee pain solutions recommended by leading ortho doctors at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine.
What Are the Common Causes of Knee Pain
Before diving into solutions, it is important to understand the possible causes of your knee pain. Here are the most common conditions that lead to knee pain and discomfort:
- Osteoarthritis: This type of arthritis occurs when the protective cartilage in the knees wears down over time.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: This autoimmune disorder causes inflammation in the joints, including the knees.
- Ligament Injuries: Tears in the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) can cause significant pain.
- Meniscal Tears: The menisci are cartilage pieces that cushion the knee. Tears often occur due to twisting movements.
- Tendinitis: Inflamed tendons around the knee can cause pain, especially during activities like running or jumping.
- Bursitis: The knee has small fluid-filled sacs called bursae that can become inflamed and painful.
If you are unsure of the cause of your knee pain, an ortho doctor can help evaluate your symptoms and perform diagnostic tests to determine the underlying issue.
Top Knee Pain Solutions Recommended by Ortho Doctors
The following are the top orthopedic solutions for knee pain recommended by ortho doctors in San Antonio, TX.
1. Rest and Modify Your Activities
One of the first treatment recommendations from an ortho doctor may be simple modifications to your activities. If your knee pain is caused by overuse or minor strain, resting your knee and reducing high-impact activities may help alleviate discomfort.
Low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling can maintain mobility without further aggravating the joint.
2. Apply Ice and Heat Therapy
Ice packs are commonly used to reduce swelling, especially after an injury. Cold compresses can help numb the area and minimize inflammation.
Heat therapy, on the other hand, is effective for loosening tight muscles and improving blood flow, which can relieve chronic knee pain. Alternate between both therapies for best results.
3. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy plays a critical role in managing knee pain. A trained physical therapist can guide you through strengthening and stretching exercises tailored to your condition. These exercises enhance flexibility, increase range of motion, and stabilize the muscles that support the knee joint.
Many ortho doctors partner with experienced physical therapists to ensure patients receive comprehensive care.
4. Medications
Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can offer temporary relief for mild-to-moderate knee pain. For persistent pain or inflammation, ortho doctors may recommend prescription medication or injectables.
Popular injectable options include corticosteroids to manage inflammation and hyaluronic acid to improve joint lubrication.
5. Orthopedic Braces and Support
Wearing knee braces, compression sleeves, or supportive footwear can help reduce pressure on your knees and provide stability during daily activities. An ortho doctor may also recommend custom orthotics designed specifically for your condition.
These aids are especially beneficial for those with ligament injuries or chronic conditions like arthritis.
6. Minimally Invasive Procedures
When conservative treatments are not enough, minimally invasive procedures like arthroscopic surgery can offer effective solutions. Arthroscopy allows an ortho doctor to diagnose and treat knee issues using tiny instruments inserted through small incisions.
This procedure is commonly used to repair meniscal tears or remove damaged tissue with minimal recovery time.
7. Knee Replacement Surgery
For advanced cases of arthritis or severe joint damage, knee replacement surgery might be the best option. During the procedure, damaged parts of the knee are replaced with prosthetic components.
A consultation with an experienced ortho surgeon will help determine if total or partial knee replacement is right for you.
8. Weight Management
If you are overweight, losing even a small amount of weight can alleviate knee pain by reducing strain on the joints. Your ortho doctor may collaborate with a nutritionist to help you develop sustainable weight management strategies that support joint health.
9. Lifestyle Changes
Implementing small changes in your daily routine can prevent further knee damage and manage existing pain. For example:
- Use proper posture while sitting or lifting heavy items.
- Avoid wearing high heels, as they add pressure to the knees.
- Incorporate more anti-inflammatory foods, such as leafy greens and fatty fish, into your diet.
When Should You See an Ortho Doctor
You should consult an ortho doctor if:
- Knee pain persists for more than two weeks despite rest.
- The pain is accompanied by swelling, redness, or warmth around the knee joint.
- You experience difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected knee.
- There is a sudden loss of range of motion or stability.
Ortho Doctor in San Antonio, TX
Are you suffering from knee pain and unsure of the best treatment approach? Schedule your consultation with our experts at the Center for Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine.
Our board-certified orthopedic specialists provide advanced orthopedic care tailored to your needs, from non-invasive therapies to surgical interventions. We also offer on-site diagnostic imaging services for the convenience of our orthopedic patients.
Do not wait — call us today at (210) 692-7400 or schedule your visit using our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
