Most commonly knee problems are related to aging, stress or strain on the knee, or injury. Among the most common knee problems individuals, experience is strained or sprained ligaments, arthritis, tendonitis, and cartilage tears. These problems can range from a mild hindrance to painful and debilitating.

Oftentimes there are both surgical and non-invasive options available to treat knee problems however, the options will vary depending on each patient’s specific condition. By seeking treatment from a knee doctor, patients experiencing knee problems can receive a prompt and accurate diagnosis and treatment to return to a pain-free life as quickly as possible.

Knee pain is fairly common at some point in life given the amount of wear and tear the joint goes through during the course of life. There are various risk factors that increase the likelihood of experiencing knee pain including weight, age, activity level, underlying conditions, and several other factors. Knee pain may be caused by an acute injury or be the result of a chronic condition.

Knee pain can often be caused by fractures, ACL tears, MCL tears, torn meniscus, any torn ligament or cartilage, or a dislocated kneecap or knee. Forms of arthritis including osteoarthritis of the knee, psoriatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis may cause one to experience knee pain. Other causes include wear and tear (especially among those who are overweight), inflammation following a sprain or pulled muscle, and Osgood-Schlatter diseases, among others.

Typically, individuals seek orthopedic care for knee stiffness and knee pain. Occasionally, knee pain or stiffness will subside on its own with rest and treatment; however, you should rule out a more serious chronic or degenerative condition by seeking treatment. There are times when knee pain may indicate a meniscus or ACL tear that requires medical attention.

A doctor who specializes in orthopedics is of the utmost importance when dealing with an orthopedic problem. Following knee surgery, some patients are given a pain-free life for the first time in years and are able to return to a fulfilling life.

In spite of the fact that some individuals may feel comfortable letting knee soreness or stiffness heal on its own, anyone with a persistent condition is advised to visit a knee specialist, regardless of whether the pain is intermittent. It is imperative to seek medical treatment as soon as possible in certain situations. Patients experiencing knee pain after a sports injury or a car accident should seek medical attention immediately to ensure structural joint damage is not occurring.

Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they have a high fever (running a temperature greater than 101 degrees Fahrenheit), which may point to an infection. Patients should also seek medical help if they struggle to bear weight on the affected leg, are unable to bend their knee, notice large swelling on the affected area, or if the lower leg or joint is deformed.

Treatment will differ based on the condition. Knee stiffness and soreness can often be treated with prompt medical attention to get patients back on their feet within a few days. Some procedures may require long-term treatment and surgery. It is also possible for an orthopedic doctor to detect an underlying chronic condition that is causing the discomfort. It is highly beneficial to seek medical attention as soon as possible, regardless of the nature of the injury or condition.

If you suffer from knee pain, you can prevent long-term negative effects, alleviate pain and get back to living the life you want as soon as possible by seeking treatment. For patients in Virginia, the Orthopedic Group is available to meet all knee problem needs. We serve patients from Leesburg VA, Lansdowne VA, Stone Springs VA, Dulles, VA, Ashburn VA, Sterling VA, Aldie VA, South Riding VA, Herndon VA, Winchester VA, Reston VA, and Chantilly VA.