Traumatologue - Orthopédiste
Knee
Services > Pain Management > Knee
Knee Pain
Knee pain is a very common complaint that is especially prevalent among adults. It often occurs due to injuries like torn ligaments or cartilage, medical conditions such as arthritis, gout, and infections, or it could be caused simply by aging-related wear and tear. This pain can greatly affect one’s daily activities, like walking and climbing stairs, significantly lowering one’s quality of life and well-being.
The knee joint is the largest one in the body and consists of three main parts: the thigh bone (femur), the shin bone (tibia), and the kneecap (patella). It is supported with ligaments and tendons to ensure stability, while cartilage that coats the surrounding joint helps to cushion the impact during movement and minimize friction. Any damage to the surrounding tissue or the joint itself can give rise to knee pain and discomfort. The knee is especially susceptible to osteoarthritis, a type of arthritis that is caused by the wear and tear related to aging.
If you are suffering from any of the following symptoms, you may have a knee injury or condition:
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Pain behind the knee
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Pain in the kneecap
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Severe joint pain
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Swelling or tenderness in your knee or calf
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Unable to bend or move your knee
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Walking is hard or uncomfortable.
Common Knee Injuries and Conditions
Knee pain can stem from a variety of factors and conditions, they include:
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Arthritis of the knee, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
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Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture
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Cartilage damage
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Inflamed joint lining
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Tendon injury
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Collateral ligament injury
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Knee trauma: fractures and dislocations
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Meniscus tear
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Sprains
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Bursitis
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Patellar tendonitis (Jumper’s knee)
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Patellofemoral pain syndrome
Diagnosis and Treatment
Dr. Errachid will discuss your knee symptoms with you, assess the severity of your knee ailment, and conduct any necessary imaging tests to determine the exact cause of your knee pain. After a thorough examination and diagnosis, he will create a personalized treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms.
The first line of treatments for knee injuries and conditions usually consist of non-surgical approaches.
Such conservative and non-invasive solutions include:
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Walking aids
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Physical therapy
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Pain medication
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Therapeutic exercises for stretching and strengthening the knee.
Surgical approaches
If, however, the knee pain doesn’t alleviate or subside following the conservative treatments, then Dr. Errachid may discuss surgical procedures with you.
Through a knee arthroscopy, it’s possible to both diagnose and treat a knee injury or condition. It is also minimally invasive, doesn’t leave much scar tissue as the incision is minimal, and allows a faster recovery rate compared to traditional open knee surgery.
Common arthroscopic procedures involve:
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Meniscus repair
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ACL reconstruction
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Removal of inflamed synovial tissue
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Cartilage repair
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Removal of loose fragments of bone or cartilage
In severe cases, when the joint is significantly damaged, a knee arthroplasty, otherwise known as knee joint replacement surgery, may be necessary to alleviate the pain and discomfort.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
If you’re seeking relief from knee pain and discomfort, don’t hesitate! Call us or book an appointment online today!
No matter the cause of your knee pain, Dr. Errachid has you covered, and will provide you with the highest quality care to manage and treat your pain.
A: If your knee pain is severe, persists for more than a few days, or is accompanied by significant swelling, redness, or instability, it's important to consult with your orthopedic doctor. Knee pain accompanied by a popping sensation or locking of the knee may indicate a meniscus tear or a ligament injury. If you are unable to bear weight on your knee or experience sudden knee pain after a fall or injury, seek immediate medical attention from your traumatologist.
A: Yes, wearing shoes that lack proper support, cushioning, or stability can put extra stress on your knee joints and contribute to pain. It's important to choose footwear that fits well, provides adequate arch support, and is appropriate for your specific activities or sports.
A: Gentle exercises, such as straight leg raises, heel slides, and quad sets, can help improve strength and flexibility in the muscles surrounding your knee. Low-impact activities like swimming, cycling, and using an elliptical machine may also be beneficial. However, if your pain is severe or caused by an underlying condition, consult with your orthopedic doctor before starting any exercise program.
A: Yes, losing excess weight can help alleviate symptoms associated with conditions like osteoarthritis of the knee.
A: Yes, knee pain can sometimes be related to conditions like gout, infections, or referred pain from the hip or back.
A: Surgery may be considered when conservative treatments fail to provide relief or if there is significant damage to the knee joint.
A: Recovery from knee arthroscopy can vary, but generally, patients return to normal activities within 6 to 8 weeks after surgery.
A: Recovery after ACL reconstruction typically takes 6 to 12 months, with a gradual return to sports and high-demand activities.
A: Recovery after knee arthroplasty (knee replacement surgery) usually takes about 12 weeks, but many people can walk without an assistive device after 3 weeks and drive after 4 to 6 weeks.
A: The healing time for knee pain varies depending on the underlying cause and severity. Minor strains or inflammation may improve within a few days to a couple of weeks with conservative treatments, while more severe injuries or chronic conditions may take several weeks or months to heal. Dr. Errachid will assist you with managing your knee pain and provide you with a personalized treatment plan to support you on your way to recovery and a life free from pain.
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