Treatment for Knee Pain

We take our joints for granted, especially when they’re functioning properly.  We use them to walk, run, stand, sit, jump,cycling, play, and work. Even at rest, we put pressure and weight on our joints. Luckily joints, bones, tendons, and ligaments are pretty resilient and can take a lot of wear and tear. At some point, however, joints can begin to feel the strain of constant use and begin to wear down. Our knees are joints that we use all the time as we bend and straighten our legs throughout the day. Those that are active in sports or just daily activities use their knees to squat, kneel, and bend causing potential damage to the area. When the knees begin to hurt, it doesn’t take long for the rest of the body to feel it, too. When we have knee pain, it is human nature for our body’s to adjust to the pain. We put more pressure on our hips and back and the pain-free leg to compensate. This throws the body out of alignment which can cause aches and pains on its own.Depending on the type of knee pain, over the counter analgesics and NSAIDs can be helpful to reduce swelling and inflammation. The RICE treatment – rest, ice, compression, and elevation – are encouraged to allow the knee to rest and recuperate. Occasionally, a knee brace or Ace bandage can be used for extra support if needed.If the pain does not go away in a few days from this home remedy, and instead, grows worse, it is time to seek out an orthopedic doctor.

Orthopedics is a branch of medicine that deals with the musculoskeletal system, and encompasses a broad range of injuries of the bones, tendons, ligaments, nerves, joints, and muscles. While orthopedists are also knows as doctors of sports medicine, one does not have to be an athlete to seek one out for treatment . Orthopedic surgeons specialize in surgeries and treatment to help everyone regain mobility and function. Treatment for knee pain include cortisone shots, which is administered once and provides relief from 3-6 months, and sometimes years. Viscosupplement injections are given once a week for 3 weeks and provide relief for long periods of time. Platelet Rich plasma (PRP) injections are also a consideration. Knee surgery is a common surgery for an orthopedic surgeon. There are different types of surgeries, both inpatient and outpatient that can get you back on your feet. The most common type of knee surgery is arthroscopic surgery, which involves small incisions being cut into the damaged area followed by a tiny camera inserted inside to allow the doctor to assess the damage. While inside, he can use tools to smooth away rough areas, and remove tissue. For more severe issues of the knee a partial or total knee replacement is a possibility. At San Diego Orthopedic Surgery, we are with you from beginning to end and consider ourselves your partner in the attempt to give you the best care possible.