When Does Knee Pain Require Treatment?

One of the most common large joints that can cause pain is the knee. Due to the configuration of the joint and the extensive ways it is used, injuries and pain conditions are common. From mild sprains and strains to chronic osteoarthritis and tendonitis, many different conditions can result in knee pain. When should you seek treatment for your knee pain?

Common Causes of Knee Pain

Obviously, if you twist or injure your knee, it is likely you will experience some level of pain. Some injuries may require a trip to the ER, especially if a fracture or torn ligament are suspected. When you cannot put weight on a knee or there are significant signs of swelling or bruising, it is always prudent to seek a medical exam to determine if you need urgent treatment.

When knee pain begins gradually and it is not due to a specific injury, there can be many different causes. The knee joint contains multiple ligaments and tendons, bones, cartilage and nerves that can become aggravated or damaged. Some of the conditions that can result in knee pain include:

• Arthritis – osteoarthritis is the most common
• Sprains – stretched or torn ligaments
• Strains – stretched or torn tendons/muscles
• IT band syndrome
• Bursitis
• Tendonitis

In many cases, a mild sprain or strain can heal on its own with conservative treatment and rest. If there is not significant swelling or discomfort, minor injuries may recover after a few days. Other conditions like tendonitis, bursitis, arthritis and IT band syndrome may only cause occasional pain or discomfort when performing specific movements.

Any time knee pain interferes with your mobility, sleep or overall quality of life, it can be worthwhile to see a doctor. Many conditions like arthritis may get worse over time – treatment can help mitigate the pain and minimize damage to the joint. Many knee pain conditions can be treated with conservative options such as physical therapy, injections, OTC medications and bracing devices, offering relief with minimally or non-invasive treatments.

At Medici Spine & Pain, we specialize in acute and chronic pain conditions. Our experienced medical team utilizes a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing and treating joint conditions, including those that result in knee pain. If you have ongoing knee pain, contact one of our clinics in Georgia to schedule an appointment with one of our knee specialists. We can accurately diagnose your knee pain and find relief for your condition.