Knee Pain
Discomfort or injury affecting mobility and stability of the knee
Knee pain is a common issue that can affect people of all ages, from active individuals and athletes to those experiencing the natural wear and tear that comes with ageing. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain that limits your ability to walk, climb stairs, or perform daily activities. Knee pain can be caused by injury, overuse, or underlying conditions such as arthritis, and treatment depends on the specific cause and severity of the problem.
CAUSES OF KNEE PAIN
There are many potential causes of knee pain, and understanding the underlying issue is key to finding effective treatment.
Common causes of knee pain could include:
- Injury: Sudden trauma or impact can damage the structures in your knee, leading to pain. Common injuries include ligament tears (ACL, MCL), meniscus tears, or fractures.
- Overuse: Repetitive activities, such as running or jumping, can lead to overuse injuries in the knee. Conditions like patellar tendinitis or iliotibial band syndrome often result from overuse and strain on the knee joint.
- Arthritis: Osteoarthritis is a common cause of knee pain, particularly in older adults. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions your knee wears away, leading to stiffness, swelling, and discomfort. Other types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can also cause knee pain.
- Bursitis: The bursae are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint. Inflammation of these sacs, known as bursitis, can cause pain and swelling, particularly with movement.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the knee, often caused by overuse or injury, can lead to pain and difficulty with movement.
SYMPTOMS OF KNEE PAIN
The symptoms of knee pain vary depending on the underlying cause but often include:
- Pain: Pain may occur at the front, back, or sides of the knee and can range from mild to severe. It may worsen with activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or sitting for long periods.
- Swelling: Swelling around the knee joint is common and may occur immediately after an injury or gradually over time.
- Stiffness: You may experience difficulty moving or bending the knee, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
- Weakness or Instability: The knee may feel weak or unstable, making it difficult to bear weight or perform certain movements.
- Popping or Grinding Sensation: You might hear or feel a popping, grinding, or clicking sensation when moving the knee, which may indicate an injury to the cartilage or other structures.
DIAGNOSIS OF KNEE PAIN
To determine the cause of your knee pain, Dr Liddell will conduct a thorough physical examination and ask about your symptoms, medical history, and activities that may have contributed to the pain.
Diagnostic tests may be required to confirm the diagnosis, including:
- X-rays: X-rays are useful for detecting fractures, bone spurs, and signs of osteoarthritis.
- MRI: An MRI provides detailed images of the soft tissues in your knee, such as the ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. This can help identify injuries like meniscus tears or ligament damage.
- Ultrasound: Ultrasound can be used to assess inflammation or injuries to the tendons and bursae around the knee.
KNEE PAIN TREATMENT OPTIONS
Treatment for knee pain depends on the cause and severity of the pain. Dr Liddell will provide a personalised treatment plan to address your specific needs.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Many cases of knee pain can be effectively managed without surgery including:
- Rest and Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that aggravate your knee pain can help reduce inflammation and allow the knee to heal.
- Physiotherapy: A structured physiotherapy program can help strengthen the muscles around your knee, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.
- Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help relieve pain and reduce swelling.
- Injections: In some cases, corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections may be used to reduce pain and inflammation in the knee joint.
Surgical Treatments
If non-surgical treatments are not effective, or if the knee pain is caused by an injury that requires repair, surgery may be recommended.
Alleviating knee pain depends on identifying the underlying cause and choosing the most appropriate treatment. Dr Liddell will work closely with you to create a personalised treatment plan that may include physiotherapy, activity modification, and other interventions to restore strength, flexibility, and function in your knee, helping you return to your daily activities with reduced pain and improved mobility.