Knee pain can start with an injury or happen gradually over time. At Cleveland Clinic, our specialists are here to figure out exactly what’s causing your pain and create a personalized care plan that gets you up and moving again. Whether you squatted too low in an exercise class or have started to notice a twinge when you take the stairs, knee pain can be, well, a real pain. No matter your age, knee troubles can interfere with your life and keep you from doing the things you love. If you have knee pain, some things you can do at home to help break the inflammatory cycle are protection, rest, ice, compression, and elevation (known as PRICE).
While it is generally accepted that less invasive treatments should be offered before more invasive ones, there is a lack of agreement on the order in which the less invasive are to be presented. Knee osteoarthritis is the most common form of osteoarthritis in the United States. It is caused by progressive degeneration of the cartilage in the knee joint, which protects bones in this area from rubbing against each other.
Whether from osteoarthritis, a sprained ligament or strained muscle, cartilage damage, or tendonitis, many different issues can cause this type of joint discomfort. Tight muscles is a common cause of knee pain as they can make subtle changes to how the forces go through different parts of the joint. By doing stretches as part of your knee treatment plan, you can reduce the tension on your joint.
High glucose levels interfere with the nerves’ ability to transmit signals properly and weaken the walls of the small blood vessels that supply the nerves with nutrients and oxygen, leading to neuropathy symptoms. When someone has femoral neuropathy, it means the femoral nerve in their leg isn’t working right because it’s damaged. This can happen for a few reasons and there are certain factors that make people more likely to get it. This article will discuss how to live with this condition, offering guidance on sleeping and sitting adjustments to help find relief from the symptoms of femoral neuropathy. Human amniotic membrane (HAM) and human amniotic fluid-derived cells (HAFCs) contain properties that present potential for alleviation of OA disease progression. Amniotic tissues consist of anti-inflammatory factors that upregulate anti-inflammatory pathways, high hyaluronic acid and proteoglycan content, as well as regenerative chondrocyte differentiation properties.
Unlike arthritis, bursitis tends to have a sudden and severe onset. You might also feel pain that extends beyond the affected joint. Soft tissue injuries usually take 6-12 weeks to heal and strengthening muscles often takes 1-2 months of regular exercise to notice the benefits so don’t give up too soon.
Supplements such as glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate have wide use. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate may support cartilage function and stability. When medical professionals inject them directly into the joint, steroids have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Because of this, a partial meniscectomy is typically reserved for traumatic meniscal tears or for people who get minimal pain relief from PT. Knee pain that occurs when you bend or straighten your leg could indicate a possible injury, arthritis, or tendinitis. Chondromalacia is specific to the kneecaps and is caused by a breakdown of cartilage. It’s most common in athletes, such as runners, as well as people born female. You can find out more about how they work, including the risks and benefits of each in the knee injection section.
Knee pain can be a debilitating condition that affects individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Whether it is caused by an injury, arthritis, or overuse, finding the right treatment option is crucial in managing the discomfort and improving quality of life.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is often recommended as a first-line treatment for knee pain. A physical therapist can create a customized exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. This form of treatment can also help improve balance and prevent future injuries.
Medication
Medication such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with knee issues. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to provide temporary relief from severe pain and swelling.
Surgery
In cases where conservative treatments are ineffective, surgical intervention may be necessary. Procedures such as arthroscopic surgery, total knee replacement, or partial knee replacement can help restore function and alleviate pain in the affected knee.
Alternative Therapies
For individuals seeking alternative treatment options, acupuncture, chiropractic care, and massage therapy may provide relief from knee pain. These complementary therapies focus on addressing imbalances in the body and promoting healing without the use of medication or surgery.
Lifestyle Modifications
Simple lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, wearing supportive footwear, and avoiding high-impact activities can help prevent worsening of knee pain. Engaging in low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling can also help strengthen the muscles around the knee joint without exacerbating pain.
Overall, there are numerous treatment options available for individuals suffering from knee pain. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of the pain and develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses the individual’s specific needs and goals.
