Holistic Techniques Offering Long-Term Relief from Knee Pain

Knee pain is a complaint, especially among athletes and older adults struggling with arthritis. Knee pain resulting from fatigue usually resolves after adequate rest or taking pain relievers, but you may need medical care if it persists. If you are looking for long-term relief from knee pain, the West Chester knee pain specialists at Orthopedic Surgeon & Sports Medicine should be your ultimate choice.

What is knee pain?

Knee pain refers to the pain and discomfort that indicates an underlying health condition. In most cases, knee pain improves with self-care measures and over-the-counter pain relievers. But if your pain persists or deteriorates, you may need to inform your doctor for a physical evaluation.

What are the symptoms of knee pain?

The severity and site of your knee pain vary depending on the underlying cause. You may experience the following symptoms:

  • Instability or weakness in the affected knee
  • Stiffness and swelling
  • Inability to straighten your knee
  • Popping noises whenever you move

You may need to see your doctor if you:

  • Are feverish
  • Have persistent knee pain resulting from an injury
  • Your knee feels unstable
  • Notice a deformity in the affected knee

What are the causative factors of knee pain?

You may experience knee pain due to deterioration of your knee joints, chronic damage, or acute trauma. Some of the factors contributing to knee pain include:

  • Patellofemoral syndrome
  • Arthritis
  • Bursitis
  • Iliotibial band syndrome
  • An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear
  • Articular cartilage injuries
  • Meniscus tear
  • Medial collateral ligament (MCL) tear
  • Patellar tendinitis (runner’s knee)

Accidental acute injuries such as strains, fractures, and sprains, occurring at school, work, or home may also lead to knee pain. Osteoarthritis affects older adults and results in wear and tear, while rheumatoid arthritis attacks the lining of your joints.

How can you treat knee pain?

Dr. Rottinghaus performs a thorough physical exam and recommends treatment depending on the underlying cause of your discomfort. Your medicine may also depend on your knee pain severity and occupation severity duration. For instance, your doctor may recommend MCL or ACL reconstruction surgery and conservative treatment for less physically inactive patients if you’re an athlete. Dr. Rottingaus often begins your treatment with conservative methods before moving on to minimally invasive treatments. Your treatment plan may include physical therapy, knee bracing, and medicines to relieve inflammation and pain. Most patients obtain long-lasting relief from these treatments. But if your pain persists, your doctor may inject cortisone into your knee to reduce inflammation.

Is surgery a necessary treatment for knee pain?

In some cases, surgery may be the most appropriate treatment option. For instance, a fracture with bones sticking out may need open reduction and screws, pins, or plates to realign your bones. Extensive tear or damage to your tendons and ligaments may require reconstructive surgery. Dr. Rottingaus uses slightly invasive arthroscopic techniques to perform surgeries such as meniscal tear repair. You can also benefit from surgery if your knee pain is due to advanced arthritis—Dr. Rottingaus and his team also do partial and total knee replacement utilizing Smith & Nephew NAVIO.

To explore the available treatments for knee pain, call Dr. Rottinghaus or book your spot online today.

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