Knee pain is probably one of most common reasons to visit an orthopedic doctor. This is because the knee is not just a simple hinge joint, it also allows for some degree of twisting and rotatory motion. Knee pain becomes more common as you age from simple wear and tear. Years of walking, running, and routine activities can cause the joint to weaken and become prone to inflammation.
The first line of treatment when dealing with knee pain is the RICE protocol, which is an acronym that stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Over-the-counter pain pills may also be used sparingly as recommended by your doctor.
Ligament and tendon tears or fractures may require immobilization so they can heal well or surgery. Putting off seeing a doctor can lead to worsening of the tissue tears or bone fractures, leading to deterioration of the joint and the damage could extend to surrounding structures. Ultimately leading to the need for extensive surgical procedures to relieve knee pain.
Some of the important signs and symptoms that indicate you should see your doctor or an orthopedic knee specialist include:
- Unbearable knee pain
- Puncture wounds or large wounds over the knee
- Presence of fever as it may indicate knee joint infection
- Persistent swelling and inflammation
- Chronic pain that does not seem to be improving despite rest
Knee pain does not always require surgery. If the knee is not seriously damaged, the recommended treatment may be as simple as taking anti-inflammatory medication and applying heat or cold compresses. A cortisone shot or series of Orthovisc (hyaluronan) injections may also be effective. More severe knee pain may require surgical treatment, either arthroscopic or some type of replacement.
Knee surgery has significantly advanced in recent years, eliminating reasons for anyone to suffer with chronic, severe knee pain. Take care of your knees now and bring an end to your pain. If you are suffering with bad knee pain and would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Paul Jacob please call (405) 424-5426 or request an appointment online.
Dr. Paul Jacob is a leading hip and knee surgeon in Oklahoma City who pioneered robotic joint replacement surgery in an outpatient setting. Dr. Jacob has performed over 5000 robotic joint replacement procedures and actively participates in numerous research studies on robotic outcomes. Dr. Jacob is committed to excellence by achieving the highest patient outcomes with the Oklahoma Joint Reconstruction Research Institute, and has been published in The Journal of Knee Surgery, Journal of Orthopedics, Journal of Pediatric Orthopedics, Arthritis & Rheumatology, and The Orthopedic Journal of Sports Medicine..
