Is knee pain getting in the way of your day-to-day activities? You’re not alone. Knee pain affects approximately 25% of adults in the United States.
In this article, we will talk about knee pain, its causes, and accompanying symptoms. We will also discuss when individuals should seek treatment for knee pain and where you can go in Plantation, Florida for top-tier care.
Causes of Knee Pain
There are many different contributing factors to knee pain. You could have an acute injury or a chronic condition creating inflammation in the knee and triggering pain signals.
Pain may be caused by any of the following:
1. Injuries
Sports-related injuries, such as ligament tears (like ACL or MCL tears), meniscus tears, or fractures, can result in sudden knee pain. Knee injuries are common in sports and exercise.
2. Overuse
Repetitive strain on the knee from activities like running or jumping can lead to conditions such as patellar tendinitis or iliotibial band syndrome. Overuse injuries can also be a result of a sudden increase in intensity of activity.
3. Arthritis
Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other forms of arthritis can cause inflammation and degeneration of the knee joint, resulting in chronic pain and stiffness. The knee is one of the most common sites for arthritis.
4. Bursitis
Bursitis is a condition in which the bursae, which are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint, become inflamed. This can lead to pain and swelling in the knee. Bursitis can occur after being on your knees for prolonged periods or after a direct blow to the joint.
5. Tendonitis
There are various tendons around the knee which can become inflamed. Patellar tendonitis and hamstring tendonitis can cause knee pain with movement. Repetitive, high-impact movements, such as jumping, can also lead to tendonitis.
Symptoms that Occur Alongside Knee Pain
Knee pain is usually accompanied by other symptoms. It is common to experience more than one of the following symptoms:
- Swelling – The affected knee may feel swollen or puffy. This swelling may be localized to a specific area or affect the entire knee. In some cases, the knee may feel warm to the touch due to inflammation.
- Stiffness – This occurs especially after periods of inactivity or prolonged sitting. Individuals may find it difficult to bend or straighten their knee fully, and this stiffness may improve with movement but worsen again with rest.
- Instability – This limits mobility and activity. Weakness can contribute to instability and difficulty bearing weight on the affected knee.
- Noise or grinding sensation – This refers to the popping, clicking, or crackling sound in a joint. This may signify cartilage damage, ligament injury, or other structural issues.
When to See a Knee Doctor
Pain that doesn’t get better with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E. therapy) warrants a visit to an orthopedic doctor. Don’t wait to seek treatment if you experience any of the following:
- Severe pain – You experience intense or worsening pain that does not improve with rest or self-care measures.
- Swelling or redness – You notice significant swelling, redness, or warmth around the knee joint, which could indicate inflammation or infection.
- Inability to bear weight on the affected knee – You’re unable to put weight on the affected leg or stand due to pain or instability.
- Limited range of motion – This is when the knee is unable to move through its normal range of motion, meaning it is unable to fully bend or straighten.
- Pain after trauma – You experience pain following a fall, collision, or twist that results in significant discomfort or immobility.
- Chronic pain – If you have been experiencing pain in your knee that persists for several weeks or months, don’t wait any longer. See a knee doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Top Knee Doctor in Plantation, Florida
If you’re in search of a seasoned knee doctor in Plantation, Florida, look no further than Dr. Robert Baylis. Dr. Baylis is fellowship-trained in sports medicine, which makes him uniquely qualified to treat athletes and active individuals with knee pain. He has also performed numerous successful arthroscopic ACL reconstructions, so you couldn’t be in more capable hands!
Dr. Baylis and the rest of our highly skilled and caring team are eager to make a difference in your life. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Baylis, call our office today at (954) 476-8800 or use our convenient online form.