From teenage athletes to older adults with arthritis, knee pain is familiar to millions of men and women across the country. However, there is a seemingly endless stream of information surrounding knee pain that can make it difficult for patients to understand their options. Read below to learn more about causes, treatments, and prevention tips for knee pain.
Common Causes of Knee Pain
Although the knee is one of the strongest joints in the body, it is also susceptible to damage that can cause chronic pain. Knee injuries, including tendon and ligament tears, cartilage damage, fractures, and dislocations, are common in individuals of all ages and can cause significant pain. In addition to knee injuries, chronic knee pain can also occur as a result of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or mechanical problems associated with the hip or feet that place unnecessary stress on the knee. Each knee injury is unique, and similar physical injuries may cause varying levels of knee pain for different patients, so be sure to visit a medical professional who can develop a treatment plan for your specific knee pain.
Effective Treatments for Knee Pain
Just as each knee injury is unique, every treatment plan for knee pain must be tailored to each patient, and there are many effective treatments available. Physical therapy is a reliable and non-invasive option that may be especially helpful for patients gradually recovering from an injury. Knee replacements are another common treatment for knee pain, though this is an extremely invasive procedure that does not always successfully relieve knee pain. Stem cell therapy is an innovative treatment option that is becoming increasingly popular as more research is conducted. This knee pain treatment is still relatively new, but several studies have shown promising results in stem cell therapy’s ability to reduce knee pain caused by arthritis and increase mobility.
Tips to Prevent Knee Pain
Many injuries that cause knee pain are unavoidable, such as an impact in a contact sport or an accident during a regular exercise routine. However, there are a few strategies that can help reduce or prevent unnecessary strain on the knee joints and reduce overall knee pain. For fitness buffs, it’s essential to exercise smarter, not harder, especially when it comes to certain exercises like squats or weightlifting. When performed incorrectly, these exercises can cause severe, long-lasting knee damage. For individuals with arthritis who are trying to prevent worsening knee pain, The Arthritis Foundation recommends low-impact exercises, such as walking, light strength training, and stretching, as effective non-drug treatments for knee pain caused by arthritis. Committing to regular, moderate exercise and maintaining a healthy weight are some additional ways to prevent knee pain.
Despite millions of Americans living with a knee replacement, this invasive treatment for knee pain may not be right for every patient. Be sure to explore the wide range of treatment options with a medical professional who can help combat your unique knee pain.
At All American Healthcare, we are passionate about helping our patients live without pain. Our expert team of medical professionals utilizes physical rehabilitation, holistic pain management, physical medicine, and chiropractic pain relief to aid our patients in living pain-free. For individuals suffering from chronic discomfort, from knee pain or back pain to headaches or migraines, the team at All American Healthcare is here to help. If you are ready to live a life free from pain, contact our staff at either of our convenient locations in Covington or Hammond, Louisiana, to get started.
