Knee pain is a common complaint among people of all ages and can range from a mild annoyance to a debilitating condition. While some cases of knee pain can be resolved with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers, others require medical attention. Knowing when to see a doctor for knee pain can help prevent further damage and improve your quality of life. In this blog, we will discuss the symptoms of knee pain that require medical attention, the common conditions that may cause knee pain, diagnosis and treatment options, prevention tips to reduce the risk of future knee injuries and options for knee pain treatment in Pune.

What is knee pain and its common causes?

Knee pain refers to discomfort or soreness in the knee joint or surrounding tissues. It can affect people of all ages and is a common complaint among athletes, older adults, and individuals with pre-existing conditions. Knee pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Injuries: Sprains, strains, and fractures of the knee can cause pain and swelling.
• Overuse: Repetitive stress on the knee joint, such as running or jumping, can lead to knee joint pain.
• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can cause knee pain due to the breakdown of cartilage and inflammation.
• Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons that attach muscles to the knee can cause pain and stiffness.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint can cause pain and swelling.
• Ligament injuries: Injuries to the ligaments that support the knee, such as the ACL or MCL, can cause pain and instability.

These are just a few of the common causes of knee pain. If you are experiencing knee pain, it’s important to see a doctor to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Importance of seeking medical attention when experiencing knee pain

• Accurate diagnosis: A doctor can conduct a physical exam, review your medical history, and order diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of your knee pain. This is important because different conditions require different treatments.
• Prevent further damage: Delaying treatment for knee pain can lead to further damage and potentially permanent injury. For example, a minor ligament sprain can worsen into a complete tear if not treated promptly.
• Pain relief: A doctor can prescribe medication or recommend other pain management techniques to help alleviate your knee pain and improve your quality of life.
• Improve mobility: Knee pain can limit your mobility and ability to perform daily activities. Seeking medical attention can help you regain function and prevent further limitations.
• Prevent future knee injuries: A doctor can provide guidance on preventing future knee injuries through proper exercise techniques, weight management, and other lifestyle modifications.

Symptoms of knee pain that require medical attention

If you are experiencing knee pain, it is important to be aware of the symptoms that require medical attention. Here are the five symptoms of knee pain that require prompt medical evaluation:

• Pain that is severe and persistent: If your knee pain is severe and does not improve with rest and over-the-counter pain relievers, it is important to see a doctor. Severe and persistent knee pain can be a sign of a more serious condition that requires medical intervention.
• Swelling and stiffness that doesn’t improve with rest and self-care: If your knee is swollen and stiff and does not improve with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), it may be a sign of a more severe injury or underlying condition. You should seek medical attention to determine the cause of the swelling and stiffness.
• Difficulty bearing weight on the affected knee: If you are unable to bear weight on your affected knee or have difficulty walking, it is important to see a doctor. This could be a sign of a ligament tear, fracture, or other serious knee injury that requires immediate attention.
• Visible deformity or unusual appearance of the knee: If your knee looks deformed or has an unusual appearance, such as a bent or crooked shape, it may be a sign of a serious knee injury or fracture. You should seek medical attention immediately.
• Fever or signs of infection: If you have a fever, chills, redness, warmth, or other signs of infection along with knee pain, it could be a sign of an infected joint. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate evaluation and treatment.

Conditions that may cause knee pain

Knee pain can be caused by various conditions, ranging from minor injuries to chronic diseases. Here are some of the most common conditions that may cause knee pain:

1. Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage that cushions the knee joint wears down over time. This can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, especially during physical activity or after prolonged periods of inactivity.
2. Rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints, including the knee. This can lead to pain, swelling, and stiffness, as well as joint deformity and limited mobility.

3. Tendinitis: Tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendons that attach muscles to the knee joint. This can occur due to overuse, repetitive stress, or injury. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness around the knee joint. 

4. Bursitis: Bursitis is an inflammation of the small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the knee joint. This can be caused by overuse, injury, or infection. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness around the knee joint.

5. Meniscus tears: The meniscus is a rubbery disc that cushions the knee joint. Tears in the meniscus can occur due to sudden twisting or impact injuries, as well as degenerative changes over time. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the knee joint.

7. Ligament injuries: Ligament injuries, such as ACL or MCL tears, can occur due to sudden impact or twisting injuries, as well as overuse or repetitive stress. Symptoms include pain, swelling, instability, and limited mobility in the knee joint.
8. Patellofemoral pain syndrome: Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a condition that causes pain around the front of the knee, often due to overuse or muscle imbalances. Symptoms include pain or discomfort in the knee joint, especially during physical activity or after prolonged periods of inactivity.

Non-surgical treatment options

If you are experiencing knee pain, there are various non-surgical treatment options that can help alleviate pain and improve mobility. Here are some common non-surgical treatments for knee pain:

• Rest: Rest is often the first line of treatment for knee pain, especially if the pain is due to overuse or injury. Avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain, and taking time off from physical activity can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
• Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice or heat to the affected knee can help reduce pain and swelling. Ice therapy is best used for acute injuries, while heat therapy is best used for chronic pain or stiffness.
• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help improve knee strength and flexibility, as well as reduce pain and inflammation. A physical therapist can create an individualized exercise program tailored to your specific needs.
• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications or injections, such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid, to help alleviate pain and inflammation.
• Assistive Devices: Using assistive devices, such as knee braces or crutches, can help support the knee joint and reduce pain and inflammation.
• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce stress on the knee joint, which can help alleviate pain and improve mobility.
• Low-impact Exercise: Engaging in low-impact exercise, such as swimming or cycling, can help improve knee strength and flexibility, without putting excess stress on the knee joint.

Conclusion

In conclusion, knee pain is a common condition that can greatly impact your daily life. Whether it’s caused by overuse, injury, or an underlying medical condition, it’s important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing persistent or severe knee pain. Delaying treatment or ignoring the symptoms can lead to further damage and potentially long-term consequences.

There are various non-surgical treatment options for knee pain, including rest, ice and heat therapy, physical therapy, medications, assistive devices, weight management, and low-impact exercise. Your doctor can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific needs and guide you through the recovery process. Dr. Kashinath Bangar is expert doctor for knee pain treatment in pune available at Painex Pain Management Clinic. At Clinic, Dr. Bangar offers a range of non-surgical treatment options for knee pain, including therapy, medications, and interventional pain management procedures.

It’s important to listen to your body and not push yourself beyond your limits, as this can lead to overuse injuries. Overall, seeking medical attention for knee pain and following prevention tips can greatly improve your quality of life and reduce the risk of future knee injuries. Don’t let knee pain hold you back from doing the things you love. Take control of your health and seek the care and support you need to live a happy, healthy, and active life.

If you are experiencing knee pain, don’t suffer in silence. Contact Painex Pain Management Clinic to schedule an appointment with Dr. Kashinath Bangar and take the first step towards lasting relief.