KNEE PAIN
Knee pain is a common complaint, and can occur across all age groups. The reason for knee pain may be due to a range of causes including injury, overuse, or from an underlying medical condition.
The severity and location of knee pain can also vary depending on the cause. Common locations of knee pain include the front of the knee (anterior), inside of the knee (medial), outside of the knee (lateral), and behind the knee (posterior).
The Causes of Your Knee Pain
Dr. Nelson seeks to get to the root cause of your knee pain and will work to treat the cause or refer you to different specialists based on his findings. Read more about common causes of knee pain and their treatment options:
- Arthritis: Arthritis is when your cartilage is worn down and causes pain in your knee. It can be treated with therapy and medication, or if necessary a knee replacement if you have severe damage.
- Meniscus Tear: The cartilage supporting your knee can become torn. Physical therapy, surgery, and injections can all be treatments for a tear depending on its severity.
- ACL and Ligament Tears: This is more severe than a meniscus tear, and often requires surgical reconstruction of the ACL or ligament. It will cause severe pain after it occurs, and continue to ache if not treated quickly.
- Patellofemoral Pain: Trauma to the knee cap or genetic disorders can make it so the muscles and ligaments do not hold the kneecap in place, creating pain and pressure in your ligaments and on your shin bone.
- Bursitis: Bursitis is when fluid-filled sacs that cushion your joints become inflamed. Surgery is rarely needed; instead, rest and decreased movement of the joint are typically the cure.
- Patellar Tendonitis: You may experience tendonitis, or swelling of a tendon, when you put pressure on your patellar tendon. This pressure is most common for those who are involved in sports that require jumping. Physical therapy is the place to start.
- Popliteal Cysts: These occur after an injury, tear, or during arthritis when inflammation causes a build-up of fluid behind the knee. They can be slightly painful on their own, but they indicate a bigger issue too.
- Gout: Gout is a kind of arthritis caused by a build-up of uric acid. High concentration of uric acid enters the bloodstream when the kidneys cannot process out toxins quickly. Lifestyle adjustments and medications are the first steps to treatment.
- Iliotibial Band Syndrome: This is a pain in a muscle that extends from the hip to the outside of your knee. Pain is often caused by overuse and muscle misalignment during training. If it persists, physical therapy and scans can be essential in relief.
- Fracture: Fractures in your joint, knee cap, femur, and tibia can cause persistent knee pain, and will worsen with use. Diagnosis with an X-ray, a cast, and resisting use of the knee is the best approach.
Dr. Nelson’s Solutions for Your Pain
Dr. Nelson offers comprehensive solutions for knee pain, helping patients regain their mobility and return to their everyday activities. Whether you’re struggling with arthritis, injury, or chronic knee pain, Dr. Nelson provides both surgical and non-surgical options tailored to your specific needs. With advanced training from the prestigious Anderson Orthopedic Research Institute, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to each treatment, ensuring you receive the highest level of care.
Non-Surgical Solutions for Knee Pain
For those who are not ready for surgery or have less severe knee pain, Dr. Nelson offers non-surgical options to help manage pain and improve joint function. These treatments include:
- Corticosteroid Injections: These injections can reduce inflammation and provide significant pain relief, making it easier to stay active and manage knee discomfort.
- Hyaluronic Acid Injections: This treatment helps lubricate the knee joint, reducing friction and improving movement, especially for patients with osteoarthritis.
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises can improve knee stability and flexibility, helping you manage pain and maintain an active lifestyle.
Dr. Nelson works closely with other doctors to have your needs met, even if that means you visit him once and he helps you find the right doctor to treat your knee pain!
He works closely with physical therapists in the Arizona area and beyond to help you receive the right care.
Knee Replacement Surgery
For patients with severe knee damage or arthritis, Dr. Nelson offers knee replacement surgery as an effective solution to relieve pain and restore function. Using advanced techniques, he carefully replaces the damaged parts of the knee with durable, high-quality implants, allowing for smoother movement and improved comfort. His experience and training ensure that your knee replacement is performed with precision, providing long-lasting results and a smoother recovery.
The Role of a Physical Therapist
We will recommend you to a physical therapist for injuries that can be treated by strengthening the surrounding muscles and ligaments of your knee.
If we recommend knee replacement surgery, Dr. Nelson understands that successful recovery doesn’t end with surgery. That’s why he collaborates closely with trusted physical therapists in the area to ensure you receive the personalized rehabilitation you need. By working with experienced therapists, you’ll be guided through exercises and activities that help strengthen your knee, restore mobility, and improve overall function, allowing you to return to your normal activities as quickly and safely as possible.
Find Lasting Knee Pain Relief
If you’re tired of living with knee pain, it’s time to take the first step toward relief. Dr. Nelson, serving patients in Gilbert, AZ, and the southwestern U.S., offers advanced knee replacement surgery to help you regain your mobility and enjoy life without discomfort.
With his expertise and personalized care, you can experience long-lasting pain relief and get back on your feet.
Take the First Step Toward Pain-Free Knees
Joseph Nelson, MD, provides personalized care to address the underlying causes of your knee pain, whether it’s due to wear and tear, genetics, or other factors. To get started with treatment in Gilbert, Arizona, and the surrounding areas, fill out the evaluation form today. Our team will reach out to schedule your consultation and help you move toward a pain-free, active lifestyle.