Knee pain bothering you?

Anterior knee pain is a common condition characterised by pain and discomfort in the front of the knee. It can arise from a variety of causes such as overuse, injury or misalignment of the kneecap. Symptoms may include swelling, stiffness, and difficulty walking or climbing stairs. 

Patellar tendinopathy is a type of overuse injury that affects the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shin. It can occur from repetitive jumping or running activities that put stress on the tendon. Symptoms typically include pain in the patellar region, especially during activity or when climbing stairs.

Runner's knee or patellofemoral pain syndrome is a condition characterized by pain around the kneecap due to imbalanced alignment of the patella. This may lead to rubbing between the patella and the thigh bone leading to pain and inflammation. Overuse, incorrect footwear, muscle weakness and tightness may also lead to runner's knee. 

Total knee replacement is a surgical procedure commonly performed to improve mobility and alleviate pain caused by severe arthritis or damaged cartilage. In this procedure, damaged portions of the knee are replaced with artificial implants. Rehabilitation after surgery may involve progressive exercise programs, gait re-education ,and hands on treatment to aid recovery.

There are many ligaments around the knee, and an injury to one or more can occur from a twisting or direct impact. Commonly injured ligaments include ACL, PCL, LCL and MCL. Symptoms may include severe pain, swelling, instability, and difficulty walking. Physiotherapy exercises are usually needed to recover from a ligament injury. 

Muscle injuries such as strains or tears can occur around the knee joint due to overuse or sudden impact. The quadriceps muscles are often particularly susceptible to injury. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, weakness in the affected muscle(s), and difficulty performing daily activities. Treatment can involve rest, physiotherapy, and other interventions as recommended by your therapist. 

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disorder that can develop anywhere in the body including knees. As cartilage wears off, bones start rubbing against each other leading to damage, pain and stiffness. Arthritis can be treated via medication, lifestyle modifications and rehabilitation exercises. 

1. What are the common causes of knee pain?

Knee pain is often caused by injury, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, infection, and other medical conditions.

2. How can I relieve knee pain at home?

You can relieve knee pain at home by applying ice or heat to the affected area, resting your knee, taking over-the-counter pain medication, using a brace or compression wrap, and doing exercises to strengthen your knee muscles.

3. When should I seek medical attention for knee pain?

You should seek medical attention if your knee pain is severe or doesn't improve after a few days of rest, if you have difficulty walking or bending your knee, if you notice swelling and redness around your knee joint, if you hear a popping sound when you injure your knee, or if you experience numbness or tingling in your leg or foot.

4. Can knee pain be treated without surgery?

Yes, knee pain can be treated without surgery through seeing a  therapist, exercise, medication, bracing, and lifestyle changes.

5. Should I continue to exercise with knee pain?

It depends on the cause and severity of your knee pain. Low-impact exercises such as cycling, swimming, and walking may be helpful, but high-impact activities should be avoided until your knee pain improves.

6. Is surgery necessary for knee pain?

Surgery may be necessary if your knee pain is caused by a torn ligament or meniscus, if you have advanced osteoarthritis, or if conservative treatments have not been effective in relieving your pain. However, at New Health Project we may be able to reduce your pain and regain your function without the need for medical intervention.

7. How long does it take to recover from knee surgery?

Recovery time varies depending on the type of knee surgery performed. It can range from several weeks to several months. Physiotherapy and following your surgeon's instructions can help speed up the recovery process.