Knee Pain Specialist

What causes knee pain?

The knee is a hinge joint. It provides the lower leg with the ability to swing back and forth. A system of tendons, ligaments, cartilage, bones, and other tissues supports and cushion the knee joint. As a result, any part of the knee is vulnerable to injury and damage from degenerative conditions.

The common causes of knee pain include:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis causes the cartilage that protects the outside of the knee joint to deteriorate, leading to pain, stiffness, and inflammation.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. It causes inflammation of the lining inside the knee joint, causing pain, tenderness, and stiffness.

Gout

Gout is another form of arthritis. It happens when uric acid crystals build up in the joint, causing intense pain and swelling. Gout usually hits the joint at the base of the big toe, but it can also develop in the knee.

ACL injury

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is a ligament that connects your shinbone to your thighbone. ACL injuries are very common in individuals who play sports that require running and jumping, like basketball and soccer.

Meniscus tear

The meniscus is flexible cartilage that cushions and absorbs shock between the shinbone and thighbone. Sudden movements and too much pressure can lead to meniscus tears that affect your mobility.

Fractures

Fractures, or bone breaks, often happen in accidents, like a fall or a sports injury. However, knee fractures are also common in individuals with osteoporosis. This chronic condition causes the bones to weaken and become brittle.

How is knee pain diagnosed?

The Rheumatology Associates team will evaluate your gait (the way you walk) and other movements to make an accurate knee pain diagnosis. They’ll also complete a physical exam and review your medical history.

They could order an imaging scan, like X-rays, an ultrasound, a CT scan, or an MRI. Blood work could also be necessary to rule out other conditions.

How is knee pain treated?

The Rheumatology Associates team offer a complete range of treatments for knee pain, including:

• Joint and tissue injections
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises
• Osteoporosis medications (Prolia® or Evenity®)
• Oasis Health supplements

Call Rheumatology Associates today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about diagnosing and treating knee pain.