As one of the most common forms of pain some people experience, knee pain can be frustrating at times. But with the right help from knee injury specialists and a bit of individual work, you can easily navigate through knee pain and toward recovery.
At The Orthopaedic Center, we’re here to help. We’re the top knee specialists in all of Tulsa, offering knee doctor services ranging from basic injury diagnosis and rehabilitation to possible knee replacement surgery if needed. Here are some basics on how to navigate any kind of knee pain you’re dealing with, from minor to severe, to ensure proper recovery.
Minor Knee Pain
In many cases, knee pain can be attributed to minor injuries or overuse. These types of minor knee pain can often be treated at home with rest and proper rehabilitation exercises. If you’re experiencing any kind of swelling, it’s important to ice the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. This helps reduce inflammation and promotes healing.
Physical therapy is also an effective form of treatment for minor knee pain. A trained therapist can provide specific exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee joint, helping to alleviate discomfort and prevent future injuries.
Some particular exercises that may be beneficial to you for helping manage minor knee pain include:
- Straight leg raises: This exercise strengthens the quadriceps muscle, which helps support the knee joint. To perform this exercise, lie on your back with one leg straight and the other bent at the knee. Slowly lift the straight leg a few inches off the ground and hold for a few seconds before lowering it back down. Repeat 10-15 times on each leg.
- Hamstring curls: Lie flat on your stomach and bend one knee towards your buttocks, keeping your foot flexed. Hold for a few seconds before slowly lowering it back down. Repeat 10-15 times on each leg.
- Wall squats: Stand with your back against a wall and slowly lower yourself into a seated position, as if you were sitting in a chair. Hold for a few seconds before standing back up. Repeat 10-15 times.
Remember to always consult with a knee specialist or physical therapist before starting any new exercises, and listen to your body if something doesn’t feel right.
Moderate Knee Pain
In cases where knee pain is more severe or persists for a longer period of time, it’s important to seek the help of a knee injury specialist. This can include an orthopaedic surgeon, physical therapist, or sports medicine doctor. They will be able to properly diagnose and treat the underlying cause of your moderate knee pain.
Some common treatments for moderate knee pain include:
- Physical therapy
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Corticosteroid injections
- Bracing or taping for support
Severe Knee Pain or Injuries
Severe knee pain typically requires more extensive treatment measures, such as surgery. Injuries like torn ACLs or meniscal tears often require surgical intervention for proper healing. In these cases, it’s important to find a highly skilled knee surgeon who specializes in these types of procedures.
At The Orthopaedic Center, our team of knee specialists have years of experience and expertise in advanced surgical techniques for treating severe knee pain. We are dedicated to providing personalized care and developing individualized treatment plans for each patient, ensuring the best possible outcomes.
When to See a Doctor
How do you know when it’s time to seek help from a knee injury specialist? In general, if your knee pain is severe or persists for more than a few days, it’s best to schedule an appointment. Additionally, if you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention:
- Severe swelling
- Inability to bear weight on the affected knee
- Difficulty bending or straightening the knee
- Instability or feeling like the knee is giving out
Even if you’re just looking for some professional advice and guidance on how to manage knee pain, our team at The Orthopaedic Center is here to help. We offer comprehensive care and treatment options for all types of knee injuries, from minor sprains to severe fractures.
Prevention Techniques
While some cases of knee pain are inevitable, there are steps you can take to prevent or reduce the risk of experiencing knee injuries in the future. This includes:
- Maintaining good physical fitness and strength
- Using proper techniques during physical activities
- Wearing supportive shoes while engaged in high impact activities
- Stretching before and after physical activities
- Incorporating low impact exercises into your routine to promote joint health.
Remember, it’s important to listen to your body and not push through any pain or discomfort.
At The Orthopaedic Center, we strive to provide personalized care and treatment plans for all of our Tulsa patients. From minor knee pain to severe injuries, our team of knee specialists is dedicated to helping you navigate through any type of knee pain and towards recovery. Schedule an appointment today to start your journey towards a healthier, pain-free life.
