When To See A Doctor For Knee Pain
There are many causes of knee pain. Some of them are arthritis and arthritis-related conditions, genetics, and ligament sprains. The best way to deal with them is to know the warning signs and see knee specialists in Georgia immediately.
Ligament sprains
If you are experiencing pain, swelling, and loss of motion in your knee, you might have ligament sprains. This is a common orthopedic injury. The severity of the injury depends on the type and location of the ligaments that are torn. There are four major knee ligaments.
Sprains of the ACL and PCL can be very painful. Damage can occur from a direct impact to the knee or from falling. While these injuries usually heal on their own, they can lead to arthritis in the knee over time.
Some people have to wear a brace or splint to prevent further motion. Rest is also important to help the sprain heal. Depending on the extent of the damage, a patient may require surgery to repair the torn ligament.
MRI scans can also reveal the extent of the knee injury. The MRI will show the damaged structures of the joint, including the ligaments.
The amount of pain and swelling varies with the degree of the sprain. Painkillers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and physical therapy can all help reduce the pain and swelling.
In most cases, sprains are treated without surgery. Physical therapy aims to strengthen the muscles around the joint and improve range of motion. It is best to consult a healthcare provider for a diagnosis and treatment plan.
Severe sprains require more extensive treatments. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should be discontinued after 10 days, and surgical intervention may be needed. However, many mild sprains can be treated at home. Surgical arthroscopy is sometimes recommended to examine the joint and to find out the cause of the bone inflammation.
After a sprain, a person should wear proper footwear and practice safety measures to avoid falls. They should avoid playing sports when they are in pain. Also, they should maintain a healthy weight and a well-balanced diet.
Ligament sprains can be diagnosed through a doctor’s examination. The doctor will determine the severity of the injury by checking for a certain range of motion, checking for swelling, and taking a medical history.
Surgery for a torn knee ligament requires small incisions. The surgeon will insert a small lighted tube into the joint and check for the condition of the joint. He or she will then outline a post-operative plan for recovery and return to sports.
Dislocated kneecap
A dislocated kneecap is a very painful injury. It usually occurs when someone is in a sporting activity that involves a sudden change in direction. If you are experiencing a kneecap dislocation, it’s important to see a doctor to get the proper treatment. You can also use the RICE method to treat the condition.
When you’re recovering from a kneecap dislocation, you may need to take a break from physical activities. However, you can return to your usual activities once the pain goes away.
While you are awaiting a doctor’s appointment, you can apply ice packs to reduce swelling. Your doctor might prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. During recovery, you might also need to strengthen your muscles to help your kneecap stay in place.
Once you’re ready to resume your activity, you might be advised to wear a knee brace. Wearing a knee brace can reduce the risk of re-injury. The brace can also keep your leg stable, so you don’t have to worry about moving your leg.
Once you’re comfortable wearing the brace, you can start practicing exercises that will strengthen the muscles in the kneecap. Physical therapy can also help you build your strength and range of motion.
Your doctor might recommend that you do an MRI scan to look for other injuries. An MRI can show whether you have cartilage damage. Some people also develop osteoarthritis after a kneecap dislocation.
Dislocated kneecaps may cause discomfort and bruising. They can be difficult to move, so a professional may be needed to place them back in their correct position.
Depending on your condition, you might need surgery. Kneecap surgery requires a special brace and bandage. In addition, you’ll need to rest your knee for a few days. Fortunately, the majority of kneecap dislocations are mild and heal on their own. But if you experience a more severe dislocation, you might need to have your kneecap repaired.
Kneecaps can be repaired on site or through surgery. There are several surgical options to choose from, including open surgery and arthroscopic surgery. Arthroscopic surgery can offer long-term relief and pain relief.
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis of the knee is a common cause of joint pain. It causes painful stiffness and may result in a loss of movement in the joint. The cartilage that protects the joint from friction wears away, causing the bones to rub against each other.
Arthritis of the knee is a degenerative disease that can be prevented or slowed down with the right diagnosis and treatment. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments available to people suffering from the condition.