The knee joint, a focus for any knee pain management doctor, stands as one of the most intricate anatomical structures within the human body. It serves as a cornerstone for essential activities such as ambulation, running, and dancing, facilitating a myriad of lower body movements often taken for granted. However, the onset of knee discomfort brings to light the indispensable role it plays, prompting a newfound appreciation for its function and well-being. 80% of Indians in their lifetime have had knee pain due to some reason or the other. Let’s explore that.
Causes Of Knee Pain
Multiple etiologies contribute to the onset of knee pain, a condition not exclusive to the elderly population. It is imperative not to dismiss such discomfort solely based on age demographics.
Wear / Tear And Overuse
The wear and tear on the knee joint can often result from overuse, especially in cases of athletic activity or professions that require repetitive knee movements.
Medical Cause
- - Osteoarthritis
- - Runner’s knee
- - Rheumatoid arthritis
- - Gout
- - Tendinitis
- - Bursitis
- - Infections in the knee due to other illnesses
Injury
Acute injury due to overuse of the knee, fracture, ligament injury or meniscus injury can be the cause.
Symptoms of Knee Pain
Identifying knee pain is straightforward, yet it is imperative to discern potential underlying complexities beyond mere discomfort. Documenting associated symptoms and promptly consulting a healthcare professional is advised for comprehensive knee pain management evaluation is advised.
Acute Onset Of Pain
Abrupt or sudden onset of knee discomfort, particularly accompanied by jerky sensations, may indicate an underlying knee pathology.
Limited Range Of Motion
Impairment in knee movement or stiffness can signify potential knee issues.
Auditory Clues
Audible popping or grinding sounds emanating from the knee joint may serve as early indicators of knee pain.
Edema
Presence of localized swelling around the knee joint, especially in the absence of concurrent pain, warrants evaluation for potential knee pathology.
Pain Management Interventions
Knee Viscosupplement Injections
- Hyaluronate injections aim to reduce knee pain and improve mobility in osteoarthritis patients by providing lubrication and cushioning to the joint.
- Administered by a healthcare professional directly into the knee joint, the number of injections varies based on the severity of the condition, with some patients needing only one while others require multiple injections.
- Viscosupplementation offers relief from knee pain, stiffness, and swelling associated with osteoarthritis, enhancing joint function and allowing easier participation in daily activities.
- While results vary, many patients experience significant symptom improvement for several months to few years.
Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell therapy for knee pain involves injecting stem cells into the knee joint to promote healing.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
PRP therapy for knee pain uses platelets from the patient's blood to promote healing and reduce inflammation.
Treatment for Knee Pain
Unless you think the pain is bearable and doesn’t exceed more than 7 days, you can try out conservative care treatment at home. Let’s look at home knee treatment first and then the specialised ones.
Home Treatment
- Ensure sufficient rest at home, maintaining proper leg positioning to optimize blood circulation.
- Engage in gentle strength training exercises to promote knee mobility and enhance overall lower body circulation.
- Implement a structured knee stretching routine to alleviate stiffness and maintain joint flexibility.
- Manage body weight within healthy parameters to mitigate direct impact on knee joints and reduce strain.
- Adhere to prescribed physiotherapy exercises at home under the guidance of a qualified physiotherapist for optimal recovery.
- Utilize hot and cold packs alternately to facilitate joint relaxation and alleviate discomfort.
- Administer gentle massages to the knee area to alleviate pain and promote relaxation.
- Consider muscle relaxants or topical pain relief sprays, under medical supervision, for symptomatic relief as needed.
Specialised Treatment
- Consider the use of knee braces for added support, particularly if ligament weakness or knee instability is observed, as recommended by a healthcare professional.
- Participate in tailored physical therapy sessions, especially post-surgery or during extended knee treatment periods, to enhance mobility through low-impact stretching and exercises.
- Consider surgical intervention, such as partial or total knee replacement, recommended by healthcare professionals to alleviate persistent pain and improve joint function when conservative treatments have been exhausted.
Do's and Don'ts for Knee Pain
Here are some recommendations to incorporate into your daily routine to mitigate the risk of developing back pain:
Maintain Regular Physical Activity:
Engaging in low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga on a regular basis can help strengthen the muscles supporting the spine and enhance flexibility.
Achieve and Maintain a Healthy Weight:
Excess body weight can strain back muscles and the vertebral column. Therefore, adopting healthy eating habits and engaging in regular exercise to achieve a healthy weight is crucial.
Prioritize Adequate Sleep:
Utilize a supportive mattress and pillow to maintain proper spinal alignment while sleeping. Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your knees can alleviate pressure on the back.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking impedes blood flow to the spine, hindering the healing process and potentially exacerbating pain in the lower back region.
Limit Prolonged Sitting:
Extended periods of sitting, especially in positions that strain the back, should be avoided. Take frequent breaks to stand up, engage in stretching exercises, or go for short walks.
Do Not Disregard Pain Signals:
Be attentive to your body’s signals and refrain from activities that may aggravate your condition or induce further pain in the back region. Ignoring pain signals could lead to additional injury or worsening symptoms.
Dr. Anushka Patel - Knee Pain Management Specialists
Seeking consultation with a pain management specialist offers numerous benefits. While individuals often concentrate solely on the affected area when experiencing pain, it’s crucial to consider the broader context, including symptoms, underlying causes, medical history, lifestyle factors, and sleep and dietary habits. Dr. Anushka’s expertise and acumen allow her to discern the root cause of the issue accurately, leading to a positive prognosis following precise diagnosis. Dr. Anushka prioritizes comprehensive care throughout the entire treatment process, including both pre- and post-operative phases, positioning her as a highly esteemed specialist in the field of pain management.
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