Did you know that knee pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints, affecting nearly 25% of adults and significantly impacting mobility and daily life? Whether it's caused by an injury, overuse, or underlying medical conditions like arthritis, knee pain can be debilitating and frustrating to deal with.
At OAA Orthopedic Specialists, we are proud to be the leading provider of orthopedic care in Lehigh Valley. Our team of experts specializes in diagnosing and treating knee pain, offering personalized solutions that range from non-surgical therapies to advanced surgical interventions. We are committed to helping you recover, regain mobility, and feel your best. Don’t wait—schedule an appointment with us today and take the first step toward lasting knee pain relief.
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Keep reading to explore the common causes of knee pain and the most effective treatments available.
Common Causes of Knee Pain
Knee pain can have a wide range of causes, including injuries, overuse, and underlying medical conditions. Some of the most common reasons why people experience knee pain include:
- Torn ligaments: The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL) are two commonly injured ligaments in the knee that can cause significant pain.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons around your knee joint can lead to stiffness and discomfort.
- Meniscal tears: When the cartilage between your thigh bone and shin bone gets damaged or torn, it can result in pain and swelling.
- Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are two types of arthritis that can cause chronic knee pain.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion your knee joint, can cause pain and tenderness.
If you are experiencing knee pain, it's essential to consult with an orthopedic specialist for an accurate diagnosis. Once the cause of your pain is determined, our team can recommend the most effective treatment plan for you.
Non-surgical Treatments for Knee Pain Relief
The good news is that not all knee pain requires surgery. Depending on the cause and severity of your discomfort, our doctors may recommend non-surgical treatments such as:
1. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around your knee joint, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. Our physical therapists will design a customized exercise program to address your specific needs.
2. Bracing
A knee brace can provide support and stability to a damaged or injured knee. We offer a range of braces that are designed to alleviate pain and promote healing.
3. Medications
Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or prescription medications can help relieve pain and swelling. Our team will work with you to determine the appropriate medication and dosage for your condition.
4. Injections
Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and pain in your knee joint, providing temporary pain relief. We also offer viscosupplementation injections, which help lubricate the knee joint and ease discomfort caused by osteoarthritis.
5. LifeStyle Changes
Sometimes, adjusting your daily habits can help alleviate knee pain. Our team may recommend changes such as losing weight, wearing comfortable shoes, or avoiding certain activities that exacerbate your symptoms.
6. Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is a non-invasive and drug-free treatment option that can help improve joint function, reduce pain, and promote healing.
7. Rheumatology Care
If your knee pain is caused by an underlying rheumatologic condition, our experienced rheumatologists can provide specialized care and treatment to manage your symptoms.
Surgical Options for Knee Problems
If non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, surgery may be recommended. At OAA Orthopedic Specialists, we offer advanced knee surgery options including:
8. Joint Replacement Surgery
For patients with severe knee arthritis pain, a total or partial knee replacement may be the best option for long-term relief. During this procedure, our surgeons replace the damaged portions of your knee joint with artificial components that mimic natural joint movement.
Post-Treatment Recovery
Recovering from knee pain treatment, whether surgical or non-surgical, requires a proactive approach to ensure optimal healing and prevent future issues. Here’s what you can expect during post-treatment recovery:
Non-Surgical Treatments
Most non-surgical treatments for knee pain require physical therapy and home exercises to help strengthen the muscles around the knee and promote healing. Our team will provide specific instructions on how to perform these exercises and monitor your progress.
Surgical Treatments
Recovering from knee surgery is a step-by-step process that varies for each individual. Here's what you can expect during the different phases of recovery:
- Immediately Following Surgery: After your procedure, you’ll spend a few hours in recovery or, in some cases, stay overnight at the hospital. Physical therapy typically begins the same day or within the first 24 hours to jumpstart your recovery.
- Weeks 1-6: During this phase, physical therapy focuses on restoring mobility and gradually building joint strength. Depending on the type of surgery, you may need assistive devices like crutches or walkers to support your movement.
- Months 3-6: By this stage, most patients return to their normal activities, experiencing substantial pain relief and improved function. Regular follow-ups may still be recommended to monitor progress and ensure long-term success.
Preventive Care for Long-Term Knee Health
Taking care of your knees is essential for maintaining long-term joint health. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Stay Active with Low-Impact Exercises: Try swimming, cycling, or yoga to strengthen muscles without stressing your joints.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reduce joint strain by adopting a balanced diet and managing your weight.
- Wear Supportive Footwear: Choose shoes with good arch support and cushioning to protect your knees.
- Strengthen and Stretch: Incorporate strength training and flexibility exercises to stabilize and support your knees.
- Schedule Regular Check-Ups: Monitor your knee health with periodic visits to your orthopedic specialist
- Avoid High-Impact Activities: Modify or limit activities like running on hard surfaces to reduce joint stress.
- Warm-Up and Cool-Down: Prepare your knees for activity with proper warm-ups and prevent stiffness with cool-down routines.
Why Choose OAA Orthopedic Specialists for Knee Pain Treatment?
At OAA Orthopedic Specialists, we are committed to providing exceptional care for patients experiencing knee joint pain. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to helping you regain mobility and improve your quality of life with a personalized approach to treatment. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Experienced Specialists: Our team includes board-certified orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists who specialize in knee conditions.
- Comprehensive Care: From diagnosis to recovery, we offer a full range of treatments tailored to your needs, including non-surgical knee treatment options and advanced surgical procedures.
- State-of-the-Art Technology: We utilize the latest medical advancements and minimally invasive techniques to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.
- Patient-Centered Approach: We believe in clear communication and collaboration, involving you in every step of your recovery process.
- Proven Results: Many patients have experienced life-changing improvements in pain and mobility thanks to our customized treatment plans.
Feel Better, Move Better with OAA Orthopedics
Your mobility and quality of life matter, and with personalized care from our experienced specialists, you can overcome knee pain effectively and confidently. Our proven treatments and advanced technology are designed to help you move better and feel better.
Contact OAA Orthopedic Specialists today to schedule your appointment and start your tailored orthopedic treatment. Let our experienced team help you move toward a pain-free, active life!
