02 Oct Knee Joint Pain and Treatment Options
Even though each individual is unique in their type and intensity of pain, the areas in which people tend to have pain; the knees, shoulders, rotator cuff, ankles and hip is commonly shared. People have issues with some of the same body parts, whether it is from activity, overuse or age, joints tend to cause issues in everybody at one time or another. Because of all that is involved with each and every area that cause pain, we will concentrate here solely on knee pain. Many of the same pain remedies are used for other joint pain in the body. We also invite you to learn more about Dr. Nikesh Seth and other providers including Dr. Anne-Marie Cosijns, Dr. Lisa Sparks, Dr. Michael Givens, and our team of Nurse Practitioners.
Controlling Knee Pain
There are many treatments for knee joint pain, but it’s definitely not a one size fits all solution. Of course medications can and often do play a role, additionally, therapy and strengthening the muscle around the joint can play a significant role in stabilizing and controlling pain. Arch supports can also help by shifting the pressure away from outside of the knee. Additionally, in certain situations, knee braces will help and support the knee point.
Joint Injections For Knee Pain
In some cases, your doctor may suggest injecting medications or other substances directly into your knee joint.
- Corticosteroids. Injections of a corticosteroid drug into your knee joint may help reduce the symptoms of an arthritis flare and provide pain relief that lasts a few months. These injections aren’t effective in all cases.
- Hyaluronic acid. A thick fluid, similar to the fluid that naturally lubricates joints, hyaluronic acid can be injected into your knee to improve mobility and ease the pain. Although study results have been mixed about the effectiveness of this treatment, relief from one or a series of shots may last as long as six months.
Surgery For Knee Pain
Perhaps you have an injury that may require surgery, most often it is usually not imperative to have it immediately. Before making any decision, consider the pros and cons of both nonsurgical rehabilitation and surgical reconstruction about what’s most important to you. It is highly recommended to at least try some of the less invasive techniques first. If you ultimately decide to have surgery, your options may include:
- Arthroscopic surgery – Depending on your injury, your doctor may be able to examine and repair your joint damage using a fiber-optic camera and long, narrow tools inserted through just a few small incisions around your knee. Arthroscopy may be used to remove loose bodies from your knee joint, remove or repair damaged cartilage (especially if it is causing your knee to lock), and reconstruct torn ligaments.
- Partial knee replacement surgery – In this procedure (unicompartmental arthroplasty), your surgeon replaces only the most damaged portion of your knee with parts made of metal and plastic. The surgery can usually be performed through small incisions, so you’re likely to heal more quickly than you are with surgery to replace your entire knee.
- Total knee replacement – In this procedure, your surgeon cuts away damaged bone and cartilage from your thighbone, shinbone, and kneecap, and replaces it with an artificial joint made of metal alloys, high-grade plastics, and polymers.
Alternative Medicine For Knee Pain
Glucosamine and chondroitin. Study results have been mixed about the effectiveness of these supplements for relieving osteoarthritis and knee pain. People who have moderate arthritis pain appear to get the most benefit from these supplements.
At Integrated Pain Consultants, we will get to the bottom of your pain. As we mentioned, there is not a one size fits all solution. However, be assured, your problem can be solved, and you can get back to your life – doing the things you enjoy without the knee pain you have endured.
Knee Pain Management and Treatment at Integrated Pain Consultants
Give Integrated Pain Consultants a call at (480) 626-2552. Integrated Pain Consultants has a team of amazing pain management specialists, many double board certified, who are willing and able to bring your pain to a screeching halt. Call today for your initial consultation.