There is no denying that knee pain may make everyday duties difficult. You do not have to live with knee discomfort. Our pain management team uses the latest breakthroughs in pain treatment to relieve knee pain and assist you in returning to an active lifestyle.

Symptoms of Knee Pain

Recognizing knee pain symptoms is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. The following are some of the most common symptoms:

  • Weakness
  • Redness
  • Heat in the joint
  • Swelling
  • Instability
  • Popping or crunching noises

Causes of Knee Pain

Understanding the underlying causes of knee pain is crucial for successful pain therapy. Knee pain can be caused by several factors, including:

  1. Injuries:
  • Ligament tears
  • Meniscus tears
  • Fractures 

      2. Arthritis:

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Gout

    Other Causes:

  • Tendinitis
  • Bursitis
  • Overuse or repetitive strain
  • Obesity
  • Alignment issues

Treating Knee Pain with Pain Management

There are various non-surgical therapies available for effectively managing knee pain, providing substantial relief to individuals suffering from chronic knee pain. Our pain management professionals take a holistic approach, tailoring the treatment strategy to address each client’s specific needs. The following are some of the most common therapy options:

  • Anti-inflammatory medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed to treat both pain and inflammation in the knee joint, offering relief for arthritis pain and chronic joint pain.
  • Physical therapy: Engaging in physical therapy and targeted exercises can significantly contribute to easing knee pain, strengthening the surrounding muscles, promoting flexibility, and improving overall knee joint stability.
  • Knee braces or splints: Utilizing knee braces or splints can provide stability to the joint and alleviate severe pain by supporting the affected area.
  • Steroid injections: Corticosteroid injections administered into the knee joint have proven effective in reducing inflammation and providing temporary relief from chronic knee pain.
  • Nerve blocks: Nerve blocks involve injecting a local anesthetic into the nerves that supply the knee joint, resulting in temporary pain relief and easing joint pain.
  • Radiofrequency ablation: Employing radiofrequency energy, this minimally invasive treatment method targets and destroys the neurons responsible for transmitting pain signals from the knee joint, offering relief for chronic knee pain.
  • Peripheral nerve stimulation: For long-term pain relief, peripheral nerve stimulation may be recommended. This procedure involves the insertion of a device that delivers electrical impulses to the nerves surrounding the knee joint, interrupting pain signals and providing joint pain relief.

In some cases, further interventions such as hyaluronic acid injections, arthroscopic surgery, or knee replacement surgery may be considered. Consulting with an orthopedic surgeon is advisable for assessing these options. Additionally, it’s important to address conditions such as patellofemoral pain syndrome, medial collateral ligament injuries, and anterior cruciate ligament injuries, as managing these conditions can play a crucial role in relieving pain.

To complement the above pain management strategies, appropriate pain medications may be prescribed to provide additional relief and improve overall comfort.

By combining these various approaches, individuals suffering from chronic knee pain can significantly enhance their quality of life and regain mobility.

Surgical Options for Knee Pain

Our pain management specialists carefully evaluate each patient’s situation to determine whether surgery is the most suitable course of action. Surgical treatments may be considered when conservative approaches fail to provide substantial relief or when severe knee pain and significant structural damage occur. Among the most common surgical options for knee pain are:

  • Arthroscopy: Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that involves using a tiny camera called an arthroscope. This allows the surgeon to examine the inner structures of the knee joint through small incisions.
    • Special surgical devices can be utilized through these small incisions to address specific concerns such as cartilage tears, loose fragments, or torn ligaments.
    • Arthroscopy serves both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
  • Partial or total knee replacement: Partial or total knee replacement surgery is recommended for individuals experiencing severe knee discomfort and significant joint degeneration.
    • A partial knee replacement involves replacing only the damaged part of the knee joint with a prosthetic component made of metal and plastic.
    • Total knee replacement surgery entails removing the damaged joint surfaces and replacing them with prosthetic components.
    • These artificial components function similarly to a healthy knee joint, reducing pain and improving mobility.
  • Ligament Reconstruction: Ligament tears, such as those in the ACL and MCL, can cause considerable knee discomfort and instability.
    • Ligament reconstruction surgery involves repairing the injured ligament with a graft, usually sourced from a tendon, to restore knee joint stability.
    • The graft is placed in the same location as the original ligament and gradually integrates and strengthens, providing support and enhanced joint stability.
  • Meniscus Repair: The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage that cushions the junction between the femur and tibia.
    • Torn or damaged meniscus can result in knee pain and limited movement.
    • In some cases, a torn meniscus can be repaired using sutures or other techniques to retain its function.
  • Osteotomy: Osteotomy is a surgical procedure aimed at realigning the bones of the knee joint.
    • By repositioning or modifying the bones, osteotomy aims to reduce pain, improve joint stability, and potentially delay or avoid knee replacement surgery.

Each surgical option is carefully considered based on the specific needs and condition of the patient. It’s important to consult with a qualified orthopedic surgeon to determine the most appropriate course of action for managing knee pain and promoting joint health.

Rehabilitation and Follow-up Care

Following any knee pain therapy, rehabilitation plays a crucial role in the recovery process. Our pain management specialists provide comprehensive rehabilitation programs tailored to meet each patient’s specific needs. These programs may include the following components:

  1. Physical Therapy: A structured physical therapy program is essential for the healing of knee pain. It involves a series of exercises and procedures designed to improve knee joint strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Under the guidance of a physical therapist, patients engage in exercises that target the surrounding muscles, enhancing stability and support.
  2. Home Exercise Program: In addition to in-clinic physical therapy sessions, patients are often prescribed exercises to perform at home. These exercises supplement the in-clinic sessions and promote ongoing progress. By diligently practicing these exercises on a daily basis, patients can maintain the gains made during rehabilitation and enhance their knee function.
  3. Pain Management: Our pain management specialists recognize the importance of effective pain management during the recovery process. They continually assess the patient’s pain levels and provide appropriate pain relief as needed. This may involve medication management, alternative pain treatment approaches, or other interventions to ensure the patient’s comfort and ability to continue with their rehabilitation goals.
  4. Follow-up Visits: Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the patient’s progress and address any concerns or challenges. These visits allow our specialists to evaluate the effectiveness of the rehabilitation plan and make any necessary adjustments. By regularly assessing the patient’s recovery, they can ensure that the treatment plan remains on track and optimize the outcomes.

It’s important to consult with healthcare providers, such as orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, and sports medicine professionals, for specialized guidance throughout the rehabilitation process. Additional measures, such as weight loss, the use of arch supports or braces, and the application of ice packs or hot water bottles, may be recommended depending on the individual’s condition and specific needs. Furthermore, healthcare providers may explore nonsurgical treatments such as NSAID therapy, platelet-rich plasma injections, or topical analgesics, particularly in cases involving conditions like osteoarthritis pain, patellofemoral syndrome, jumper’s knee, or sports injuries.

By adhering to a comprehensive rehabilitation plan and following up with healthcare professionals, patients can optimize their recovery, manage pain effectively, and improve their overall knee health and function.

 Lifestyle Modifications and Prevention

In addition to Rehabilitation and Follow-up Care, lifestyle adjustments can help with knee discomfort and prevent other problems. Our pain management experts can advise you on the following:

Weight Management

  • By minimizing stress on the knee joints, maintaining a healthy weight alleviates discomfort and reduces the progression of arthritis.
  • A healthy weight is achieved and maintained through a well-balanced diet and regular physical activity.

Exercise and Conditioning

  • Swimming or cycling, for example, can help improve the muscles surrounding the knee joint while reducing impact and stress.
  • Exercises may be prescribed to improve joint stability, flexibility, and range of motion.

Proper Body Mechanics

  • Good body mechanics, such as proper posture and lifting techniques, can help prevent knee injuries and discomfort.
  • Using your legs when moving heavy items is vital to avoid putting undue strain on your knees.
  • Maintaining appropriate posture during sitting, standing, and walking can help distribute weight evenly and reduce knee stress.

Joint Protection

  • Wearing supportive shoes with cushioning and stability throughout the day may reduce the impact on the knee joints.
  • Knee pads or cushions protect the knees from excessive pressure during kneeling tasks such as gardening or cleaning.
  • Avoiding high-impact, repetitive activities or sports that exert undue strain on the knees can prevent injuries and pain.

 Seeking Professional Help

Our pain management specialists are dedicated to addressing knee problems and providing customized treatment plans to alleviate pain and improve the overall quality of life.

Why should you seek professional help for knee pain?

  • Expertise: Our professional team of doctors specializes in treating knee pain. They have the knowledge and abilities to appropriately diagnose the source of your knee pain and recommend the most effective treatment options.
  • Treatment strategies tailored to the individual: Everyone is different, and so is their knee pain. When you call one of our experts, they will thoroughly assess your problem while considering your medical history, lifestyle, and unique symptoms.
  • Advanced pain treatment techniques: There has been a significant advancement in pain therapy in recent years. By seeking professional help, you can access the most current pain management strategies and treatments for effectively addressing and reducing your knee pain. Our doctors stay current on the latest research and advancements to provide the best care.
  • Better living quality: Knee discomfort can significantly impact your daily activities, mobility, and overall well-being. Seeking professional help allows you to address the root cause of your suffering and receive adequate therapy. 

Don’t let knee pain limit your activities or compromise your health. Knee pain relief is now available because of developments in pain management techniques and our staff’s experience. Consult a specialist immediately to begin your journey toward a more active, pain-free life. 

Schedule an Appointment

Are you struggling with knee pain? Our experienced pain management physicians are dedicated to helping you find relief. Take the first step towards managing your chronic headaches by contacting our office to schedule an appointment today.