What is knee pain?
Knee pain is a joint-related health problem that affects all types of people. Sometimes it occurs due to an injury, like a ruptured ligament or torn cartilage. Other times, it’s a result of an underlying medical problem like arthritis or an infection.
What are the symptoms of knee pain?
Common symptoms of knee pain include:
- Weakness or instability
- Redness or warmth to the touch
- Swelling and stiffness
- Popping or crunching noises
Knee pain can also make it difficult to fully straighten your affected joint or put weight on your leg.
When should I see a specialist about knee pain?
Most cases of knee pain are nothing to worry about. In fact, almost everyone experiences knee pain on occasion.
If your symptoms last for more than a week, or they’re associated with more serious symptoms like visible swelling, severe pain following an injury, or a visible deformity, schedule an appointment with the team at Nova Interventional Pain Management.
Early intervention and treatment can significantly lower your risk of further damage and complications.
What factors increase my risk of knee pain?
A variety of factors can increase your risk of knee pain. These factors include being overweight, experiencing a previous knee injury, and having a lack of flexibility or strength.
Other factors like playing sports or working a physically demanding job can also increase your risk. Certain physical activities, like basketball, jogging, and skiing, put more pressure on your knees. This extra pressure increases your risk of general wear-and-tear and injury.
How is knee pain diagnosed?
The team at Nova Interventional Pain Management diagnoses knee pain by reviewing your medical history and asking questions about your symptoms and lifestyle. Your provider then conducts a physical exam, inspecting your knee for bruising or swelling and checking to see how far you can move your leg in different directions.
If your provider suspects an underlying injury or health problem, they also order X-rays, an MRI, or a CT scan. These diagnostic imaging procedures provide detailed pictures of your knee joints, bones, and surrounding soft tissues.
How is knee pain treated?
The team at Nova Interventional Pain Management usually recommends conservative, minimally invasive measures to treat knee pain. For example, you might benefit from losing weight, participating in physical therapy, or taking over-the-counter pain medication.
If your symptoms persist or get worse, you might benefit from joint injections. The team offers several types of joint injections, including hyaluronic acid and corticosteroids.
To receive all-inclusive care for knee pain, schedule an appointment at Nova Interventional Pain Management. Call the nearest office to speak with a friendly member of the administrative staff today.
