Why You Shouldnt Ignore Knee Pain
If you feel pain in your knee, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Acute knee pain can be caused by a variety of injuries, and it is best to consult with an orthopedic specialist. If your pain is mild, you may want to wait to see if it goes away on its own. When swelling and pain return after performing knee exercises, the majority of people see an orthopedic doctor.
Getting Through The Frustration Of Pain That Doesnt Go Away
For a patient with lingering pain, it can be hard to maintain a positive outlook. Youve likely already gone through surgery, physical therapy, and/or other pain management procedures. You might have been told that the pain would disappear with time and treatment, only to be disappointed when it didnt. It can be hard to trust new treatments, medications, or procedures when you may have experienced a letdown in the past.
However, theres still hope! At APC we prioritize function and comfort, and were determined to help you get to the point where you can do the things you enjoy and spend time with your loved ones. You may have lost some function to lingering pain, but theres plenty that can be improved and new ways to do the things you want to do. Its empowering to realize that theres a treatment out there that will work for you. When you find a physician thats willing to work with you on a treatment plan, youll work towards real relief.
Chronic pain of any kind affects our mental outlook, and its important to focus on that mind-body axis when tackling pain. Pain might never totally go away, but we can adapt and learn to live with it through mindfulness, focus, and mental self-care. At APC, we treat the whole patient, not just the physical symptoms. Were equipped with a broad array of resources, to help you access the total care you need.
If youre struggling with lingering pain or pain that doesnt go away, come into APC!
What Is A Knee Specialist Called
First and foremost, you need to know what type of doctor to see for you knee pain. If you were to go to your general practitioner about your knee pain, he or she would most likely refer you to an orthopedic doctor.
The University of Utah explains in general terms that, Orthopedic doctors are doctors who focus on caring for your bones, joints, ligament, nerves, and tendons . As such, a knee pain specialist is called an orthopedic knee specialist.
Keep in mind that many orthopedic doctors specialize in just one or two parts of the musculoskeletal system, so it is important to verify with any new doctor that he or she specializes in knees before making an appointment.
Also Check: Pulled Muscle In Neck And Shoulder
What Procedures And Tests Diagnose Knee Pain
A health care professional will begin by asking questions related to the persons general health and then specifically to the nature of the knee pain .
Next, an examination of the knee will be performed. This will include bending the knee through the full range of motion, checking for stability of the ligaments, and evaluating for any tenderness and swelling. It is often helpful to compare the results of the examination of the painful knee with the other knee. Frequently, this is all that is required to make a diagnosis and start treatment. In several research studies, it has been found that an experienced examiner is as reliable as X-ray examination.
Sometimes the doctor might want to do further studies such as the following tests.
Radiologic tests
Plain X-ray can establish fractures and degenerative changes of the knee.
MRI is used to evaluate the soft tissues of the knee for ligament tears or cartilage and muscle injuries.
Blood tests
If gout, arthritis, or other medical conditions are suspected, a health care professional might order blood tests.
Removal of joint fluid
You May Like: Can I Regrow Cartilage In My Knee
What Treatment Options Are Available When Lingering Pain Cant Be Managed At Home
Depending on the root cause of your pain, a physician will likely recommend different treatment options. However, these options are largely divided into two main groups: procedures and medications.
Under procedures, we have things like injections, epidurals, or surgical interventions, but also physical therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. Physical therapy allows you to receive personalized treatment from professionals who recommend helpful stretches, exercises, and other physical movements to get you back to a fuller range of function. Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help you to dive deeper into the mind-body connection and get help at the intersection of physical pain and mental distress. If your doctor decides that you need medication to help manage the pain, theyll work with you to find the best match with the least risk and potential side effects!
As a physician at APC, I work with patients experiencing lingering pain to evaluate where theyre at and what may be causing the pain. Together, each patient and I make a treatment plan. I think of myself as a quarterback, helping the patient to begin their journey and then passing them on to other specialists. I may refer a patient to physical therapy, psychotherapy, orthopedics, or neurosurgery. Other times, I stick with the patient, administering injections or prescribing medications to target the pain and get past it.
Recommended Reading: Sudden Intense Knee Pain While Sleeping
What Customers Are Saying:
I feel so much better today, and upon further investigation believe that there is a chance that the responses I got saved me from a serious, even life threatening situation. I am very grateful to the experts who answered me.
Susan O.USA
I can go as far as to say it could have resulted in saving my sons life and our entire family now knows what bipolar is and how to assist and understand my most wonderful son, brother and friend to all who loves him dearly.Thank you very much
Corrie MollPretoria, South Africa
I thank-you so much! It really helped to have this information andconfirmation. We will watch her carefully and get her in for theexamination and US right away if things do not improve. God bless you aswell!
ClaudiaAlbuquerque, NM
Outstanding response time less than 6 minutes. Answered the question professionally and with a great deal of compassion.
KevinBeaverton, OR
Suggested diagnosis was what I hoped and will take this info to my doctor’s appointment next week.I feel better already! Thank you.
ElanorTracy, CA
Thank you to the Physician who answered my question today. The answer was far more informative than what I got from the Physicians I saw in person for my problem.
JulieLockesburg, AR
You have been more help than you know. I seriously don’t know what my sisters situation would be today if you had not gone above and beyond just answering my questions.
John and StefanieTucson, AZ
Are You Confused When To Seek Medical For Your Knee Pain Read Our Article Below For More Information Call Us Or Schedule An Appointment Online We Serve Patients From Coral Springs Fl Parkland Fl Tamarac Fl Margate Fl North Lauderdale Fl Coconut Creek Fl
If you have a profusely bleeding leg or a broken bone, you probably will call 911. But if your knee pain isnt quite that dramatic, how do you make the distinction between something that a doctor should definitely look at right now and a minor strain that just needs to be iced?
Here are five situations in which you should seek medical attention for your knee pain.
Read Also: Shoulder Pain From Lifting Weights
How To Treat Knee Pain
There are a few different approaches for dealing with knee pain. However, its usually just a case of resting at home until it begins to feel better. While waiting for your knee to heal, do the following:
- Avoid putting weight on your knee for long periods
- Ice your knee with an ice pack or frozen peas wrapped in a tea towel you can do this for up to 20 minutes every two to three hours
Common Causes Of Leg Pain
The most common leg pain causes include muscle or , such as from exercising too vigorously blunt force, such as from banging into a piece of furniture and injuries from sports or other physical activity, like twisting an ankle or a .
Potentially more serious causes include:
-
Muscle cramps due to or certain types of medications
-
Torn or overstretched muscles or tendons
-
Fractures in a leg bone, ankle, knee or hip including
Don’t Miss: Right Elbow In The Golf Swing
When Should You Not Ignore Knee Pain
Generally, athletes should see a healthcare provider for pain lasting more than 48 hours and other adults should see an expert if there seems to be no change for three weeks. Generally, most healthcare providers recommend that you schedule an appointment as soon as you notice that your symptoms impact the way you live.
How To Fix Knee Pain In Seconds
When To See A Doctor For Knee Pain
Unfortunately, knee pain is a common problem for many Americans of all ages. While younger people tend to experience knee pain after an injury, knee pain can also be caused by a number of medical conditions, obesity and arthritis.
If youre experiencing acute or chronic knee pain, you may need to see a knee specialist for treatment.
Also Check: Lump Near Shoulder Blade On Back
You Experience Instability/lack Of Support From The Knee
Knee Instability?
See a doctor.
The knees are one of the fulcrums of stability when it comes to your body. If you are having trouble standing or walking on your knee and experience a loss of stability in the joint, it could be bad enough to warrant a visit to the doctor.
Likewise if you feel as if your knee wont even support you when you put weight on it.
You May Like: Regrow Knee Cartilage Naturally
Do Orthopedic Surgeons Work On Knees
Orthopedic doctors focus on joints, muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, and how they interact across the body. Orthopedic doctors choose from a wide array of specialties like Joints and often are the ones who treat injured knees and hips caused by arthritis or another joint limiting condition. Two of our care providers, Dr. Nauman Akhtar and Dr. Matthew Gavin, specialize in joint surgery.
by HealthStar Clinic | Mar 21, 2016 | Blog, Joint Pain, Knee Pain |
Four out of every five knee pain cases resolve by themselves. But sometimes its important to see a doctor. Lets look at why knee pain is so common and four aspects of your symptoms that mean you should see a doctor.
Most knee pain goes away
Everyone has aches and pains that they occasionally experience. Sometimes they arent cause for alarm and in fact, thats true in the vast majority of cases. Eighty percent of the knee problems people have will resolve by themselves within a period of time, explains Robert Gotlin, DO, of Beth Israel Medical Center. When certain symptoms are present, though, it is important to go to the doctor.
Lets look at why knee injury statistics are so high and four times your knee pain symptoms require a doctor.
Why knee pain is so common
Knee pain is incredibly common among American adults. In fact, it is the second most diagnosed pain condition , according to data from the CDC.
#1 Difficulty walking
Read Also: Is It Painful To Cut Your Wrist
Read Also: Jessica Simpson Over Knee Boots
When Its Time To See A Knee Doctor
Being aware of certain symptoms is important because if a knee issue can be diagnosed and treated early on, it will help to avoid further knee damage and pain in the future. Sharing this information with your doctor allows them to provide you with the best knee care. If any of the following symptoms sound familiar, you may have damaged your knee joint or the surrounding tissues:
- Knee is unable to support your weight and buckles when you attempt to use it
- Knee looks misshapen or deformed
- Knee pain or swelling that gets worse after an injury
- Popping sound at the time of the knee injury
- Range of motion decreases over time
- Tingling or numbness in the lower leg
- Unable to bend or straighten the knee without pain
These symptoms often correspond to a more serious knee condition, such as:
- Anterior cruciate ligament tears
- Posterior cruciate ligament trauma
- Rheumatoid arthritis
Our orthopedic doctors understand that knee pain can have a major effect on your lifestyle and keep you from performing routine, everyday activities. To schedule an appointment with one of our knee doctors, please call 788-9220 or request an appointment online.
Our knee specialists also understand that some injuries occurs when least expected, which is why we are proud to offer our Orthopedic Urgent Care to treat patients who are suffering from acute orthopedic injuries and conditions. Walk-ins are welcome, and no appointment is necessary.
When Should I Seek Medical Advice
You should seek further medical assistance if you have any of the following symptoms:
- Severe pain in or around the knee, especially during walking. Or especially if you are unable to walk at all.
- Severe swelling in the knee. Acute knee injuries often swell up quickly and feel hotter than normal.
- If you heard an audible pop or crack in your knee joint that is painful.
- If your knee gives way or you are not confident and feel it might give way when walking, especially going up/downstairs.
- If your knee locks whilst bending or straightening it.
- Any altered sensation in your knee, or lower leg. For example a feeling of pins and needles or a loss of feeling/numbness .
- If you are unable to complete your normal daily activities 72 hours after injury.
Also Check: 5 Inch 45 Degree Exhaust Elbow
Im A Runner And Have Occasional Knee Pain Should I Stop Running When Should I See A Doctor
We are sports medicine specialists, and therefore, we want to keep you active. Our goal is to keep you doing the activities that you love. Runners are used to tolerating high amounts of pain, and sometimes it is difficult to differentiate what is actually a bad pain from a training pain. If pain seems different than what you are used to feeling, if pain is more severe, lasts longer, or is present every time when you run, then you should contact a doctor.
When Should I Go To The Doctor For My Knee Pain
Its an unfortunate reality that many people will experience knee pain at least once in their lives.
Its true whether youre an athlete, a weekend warrior, struggling with arthritis, or none of those things. It can be a debilitating and restrictive experience, keeping you from enjoying physical activity, going places with your friends and family, and otherwise enjoying life.
Knee pain occurs from a myriad of incidents and circumstances. Your knee pain may be from a sports injury, a bad fall, arthritis, old age, a car accident, or any number of other situations. The knees are some of the hardest-working joints on your body and they are frequently made to take a beating.
Most of the time, however, knee pain improves with time and a little rest from overuse. There are multiple steps you can take at home to reduce any swelling, bruising, and related pain.
Still though, it can still be difficult to discern whether the knee pain Hoboken residents are experiencing is just a passing phase or more serious. In other words, when do you simply get out the old heating pad, and when do you ?
This guide will first walk you through how to attempt managing your knee pain at home. From there, well explain key signs and symptoms that may indicate that a trip to the doctor is wise.
Recommended Reading: Yoga Poses For Knee Pain
Facts You Should Know About Knee Pain
- Knee pain is a common problem with many causes, from acute injuries to complications of medical conditions.
- Knee pain can be localized to a specific area of the knee or be diffuse throughout the knee.
- Knee pain is often accompanied by physical restriction.
- A thorough physical examination will usually establish the diagnosis of knee pain.
- The treatment of knee pain depends on the underlying cause.
- The prognosis of knee pain, even severe knee pain, is usually good although it might require surgery or other interventions.
Also Check: What Is The Best Knee Walker
What Will The Doctor Do For Knee Pain
If your doctor believes injecting medication or other substances directly into your joint is appropriate, he or she may advise you to do so. Corticosteroids are examples of this. When you receive corticosteroid injections into your knee joint, you may find that the symptoms of an arthritis flare are reduced and pain is relieved for a short period of time.
You May Like: Symptoms Of Gout In Elbow
When Should I Go To The Er For My Knee
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the individual case. However, if you are experiencing severe pain, swelling, or instability in your knee, it is advisable to seek medical attention as soon as possible. These could be signs of a serious injury such as a torn ligament or dislocation, which will require prompt treatment.
What Will The Er Do For Knee Pain
There are a number of potential causes of knee pain, and the best course of action will differ depending on the underlying cause. However, in general, the emergency room will be able to provide pain relief and start the process of diagnosing the cause of the pain. In some cases, the ER may also be able to provide treatment for the underlying condition, such as if the pain is due to an infection.
A young person usually experiences knee pain as a result of an injury. The elderly may also be experiencing knee pain because of wear and tear or arthritis. If chronic knee pain is not sufficiently severe to require a trip to the emergency room, it could be the result of a chronic degeneration of the knee joint. Chronic knee pain, which is a common issue, is not normal. Many people are unsure where to seek a knee doctor if they have knee pain. Choose an orthopedic specialist if you want to get the best possible treatment. The orthopedic doctors specialty is in orthopedics, and he or she specializes in a wide range of conditions affecting the joint.
Also Check: 90 Degree Close Elbow Dryer Vent