Everyone is susceptible to knee injuries or diseases and infections that may result in knee pain. Most cases resolve after adequate rest or with over-the-counter pain relievers. But if your symptoms persist or worsen, seek immediate medical attention. If you are looking for long-term relief from knee pain, the San Diego knee pain experts at Gan Wellness Center have the solution for you.

What is knee pain?

Knee pain affects people of all ages, whether young or old. You may experience knee pain due to injuries like torn cartilage, ruptured ligament, or medical conditions like arthritis and gout. You can manage minor knee pain with self-care measures, but if the pain persists or deteriorates over time, you may need professional help. The knee connects your thigh bone to your lower leg bones, and the constant motion in this joint makes it vulnerable to injuries and degenerative medical conditions. Your knee joint contains tough bands known as ligaments which stabilize the knee, and cartilage, which cushions your bones. The severity of knee pain depends on the seriousness of the injury or medical condition. You may experience the following symptoms:

• Crunching or popping noises
• Warmth and redness on the affected knee
• Muscle weakness
• Stiffness and swelling

If knee pain is left untreated, it may deteriorate and limit your mobility or even cause permanent damage to your knee.

What are the common causes of knee pain?

You are likely to experience knee pain due to an injury, disease, or damage. As you age, your knee bones tend to weaken and become more vulnerable to injuries that may cause knee pain. Extreme sports can also put you at risk of developing knee pain. Some of the factors leading to knee pain include:

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Kneecap dislocations
• Runner’s knee (patellofemoral syndrome)
• Meniscus tears
• Fractures
• Knee bursitis
• Gout
• Osteoarthritis
• Iliotibial band syndrome
• Loose pieces of cartilage or bone
• Patella tendinitis
• Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears

In some cases, foot or hip problems can affect your ability to walk properly, causing extreme stress on the knee and resulting in knee pain. The experts at Gain Wellness Center use state-of-art equipment to detect the root cause of your pain and recommend the most appropriate treatments.

What are the available treatments for knee pain?

During your visit to Gain Wellness Center, your doctor performs a comprehensive physical exam and reviews your medical and family history. The team may also evaluate your symptoms and request additional tests like blood tests and X-rays to determine the underlying cause of your pain. After diagnosis, they recommend an individualized treatment plan that addresses the underlying cause while alleviating your pain and discomfort. Your treatment plan may include:

• Medications
• Injections
• Surgery
• Weight loss counseling
• Physical therapy

The treatment approach depends on the severity of your symptoms and the root cause of your pain. Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular exercises can help relieve knee and prevent a recurrence.

If your knee pain does not improve with home care treatments or worsens over time, contact the Gain Wellness Center or book an appointment online for an accurate diagnosis.

Paul watson