When to See a Doctor for Knee Pain

Knee pain can be a common issue for many people. Understanding when to see a doctor for knee pain is essential to prevent long-term damage and ensure a swift recovery.

In this article, we’ll explore the symptoms of knee pain, its causes, home treatment options, and what to expect during a medical visit.

If you’re experiencing persistent knee pain, Precision Orthopaedic Specialties is here to help. With locations in Chardon, Chagrin Falls, and Middlefield, Ohio, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating knee issues, helping you return to your daily activities pain-free. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!

Common Symptoms of Knee Pain

Knee pain can manifest in various ways, depending on the underlying cause. Common symptoms include:

Swelling and stiffness: This may indicate inflammation in the knee joint.
Weakness or instability: Feeling like your knee is giving out can point to ligament damage or knee injuries.
Redness and warmth to the touch: These are often signs of an infection or severe inflammation.
Inability to fully straighten the knee: This could be a sign of a serious knee injury.
Popping or crunching noises: These sounds may be associated with knee osteoarthritis or cartilage wear and tear.

What Causes Knee Pain?

Knee pain can arise from various conditions and injuries, including:

Acute injury: Such as a ligament tear or fracture, often sustained during sports or physical activity.
Chronic knee pain: Conditions like knee osteoarthritis or knee bursitis can cause ongoing discomfort.
Overuse injuries: Repetitive motion can lead to conditions like patellar tendinitis.
Knee osteoarthritis: A degenerative condition common in older adults.
Rheumatoid arthritis: Although not treated at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, it’s a known cause of knee pain.

How to Treat Knee Pain at Home

For mild knee pain, home remedies can be effective:

Rest and avoid activities that worsen the pain.
Apply ice packs to reduce swelling.
Elevate the knee to minimize fluid buildup.
Use over-the-counter medications, like pain relievers, to manage discomfort.
Strengthen the muscles around the knee through gentle exercises recommended by a physical therapist.

However, if knee pain persists or worsens, seeking medical treatment is crucial.

How is Foot Pain Diagnosed?

To get foot pain diagnosed, your physician will start with a detailed medical history and physical examination. They will likely ask about the nature of your pain, how long you’ve been experiencing it, and any recent injuries or changes in activity level. During the exam, your doctor may press on specific areas of the foot to identify tender spots or swelling.

Diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may be used to check for fractures or soft tissue injuries. In some cases, a doctor may also use ultrasound to assess the tendons and muscles.

When Should I See a Doctor for Knee Pain?

You should consider seeing a doctor if you experience any of the following:

Inability to bear weight on the affected knee.
Severe or intense pain that does not subside with rest.
Visible deformity or significant swelling.
Signs of infection, such as fever or redness.
Chronic knee pain that impacts your quality of life.

Visiting a sports medicine physician or an orthopedic surgeon can help identify the underlying issue and create a tailored treatment plan.

What to Expect During Your Visit

When you visit Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, a comprehensive evaluation will be conducted:

Medical history and physical examination to understand the cause of the knee pain.
Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs to assess the condition of the knee joint.
Discussion of treatment options, which may include physical therapy, medications, or in severe cases, knee replacement surgery.

Our goal is to provide personalized care that helps prevent knee pain from becoming a long-term issue.

Take the Next Step Toward Relief

Don’t let knee pain keep you from the activities you love. At Precision Orthopaedic Specialties, our experienced team of sports medicine physicians and orthopedic surgeons is dedicated to helping you regain mobility and comfort.

Whether you’re dealing with an acute injury or chronic knee pain, our locations in Northeastern Ohio are ready to serve you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward a pain-free life!

Medically reviewed by Kraig K. Solak, D.O.

Sources

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/knee-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20350849