Why do my knees hurt?
There are a number of possible causes of knee pain. Some common culprits include:
- Damaged ligaments in knees
- Damaged cartilage in kneecap area
- Bone loss (osteoporosis)
- Arthritis
- Bone fractures
- Torn meniscus
Whether your knee pain develops gradually as you age or it happens suddenly, it's important to take it seriously and reach out for help.
What are nonsurgical treatment options for knee pain?
Nonsurgical options for knee pain relief can include a variety of physical therapy techniques such as heat therapy, cryotherapy, and ultrasound therapy. You may supplement this with assistive devices like walking canes or walkers.
If your knee pain continues, Dr. McClure may recommend steroid injections. Injections can relieve pain for long periods of time, but the results aren't permanent. For that reason, you may need surgery for long-term knee pain
What are surgical options for knee pain?
There are a number of surgeries for knee pain, and many of them are minimally invasive. Some of the surgeries that Dr. McClure performs include:
- Knee replacement: replaces cartilage and bone with biocompatible metal components
- Arthroscopic ACL/MCL/PCL: minimally invasive reconstruction of torn or damaged knee ligaments
- Arthroscopic meniscus repair: minimally invasive repair of the damaged meniscus in the knee
- Fracture repair: reset of the fractured bone, sometimes includes reinforcement pins or plates
The procedure that's best for your particular type of knee pain depends on many factors specific to you. Dr. McClure considers the severity of your pain and other symptoms, the duration of your pain, and your overall health to decide what's right for you.
What is recovery after knee surgery like?
It depends on the type of surgery. Many knee surgeries today are minimally invasive. With knee replacement, for example, you might be up and walking the day of your surgery.
Dr. McClure is likely to recommend you begin physical therapy three days to a week after your knee surgery, depending on the type of surgery. Your physical therapy is a vital part of your recovery, so sticking with your schedule is the only way to build strength and regain your full range of motion in the fastest time possible.
Use the online booking tool or call the office of Stacey D. McClure, MD, PLLC, to get help for your knee pain now.
