What causes knee pain?
Knee pain is a common occurrence with a multitude of possible causes. Pain in your knee can come on suddenly, like after a fall or strenuous exercise, or it may start off mild and worsen slowly over time.
Dr. Weiss and his team diagnose and treat a wide range of orthopedic conditions that cause knee pain, including:
- Arthritis of the knee
- Bursitis
- Tendinitis
- Meniscus tears
- Knee dislocation
- Fractures of the kneecap or leg bones
- Torn ligaments, such as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)
Another common cause of knee pain is patellofemoral pain syndrome. This involves pain between the kneecap (patella) and upper leg bone (femur).
When should I see a doctor for knee pain?
Sometimes, knee pain goes away with self-care measures like rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) and over-the-counter anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen. If your knee pain persists or worsens despite home care, Dr. Weiss and his team can help.
You should call the office of Andrew B. Weiss, MD, right away if the knee pain begins immediately after an injury, such as a fall, or if it involves severe pain or swelling.
How is knee pain diagnosed and treated?
First, Dr. Weiss carefully examines your knee and asks you to describe the pain, including when it started and whether anything makes it better or worse. He may also take diagnostic tests, like an on-site digital X-ray or ultrasound.
After he diagnoses the cause of your knee pain, Dr. Weiss develops an individualized treatment plan that may include:
- Immobilization in a cast or orthopedic brace
- Assistive devices like Mobilegs® crutches
- Orthotic devices like Aircast® or OPED walking boots
- Regenerative medicine, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or stem cell therapy
- Medications
- Physical therapy
Dr. Weiss uses the highest-quality products for casting and bracing, including 3M®, AquaCast®, Ossur®, and Bauerfeind®.
If your condition is serious or doesn’t improve with nonsurgical treatment, surgery may be necessary. Dr. Weiss uses minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery whenever possible. He uses arthroscopy to treat many common sports injuries that affect the knee, including torn tendons, cartilage, and ligaments. In some cases, open surgery may be safer or more effective.
For expert care of knee pain, call Andrew B. Weiss, MD, or book an appointment online today.
