How long should knee pain last before seeing a doctor. What are the common causes of knee pain. When should you seek medical help for knee discomfort. How can you manage knee pain at home. What are the best exercises for knee pain relief. How does age affect knee pain duration. What treatments are available for persistent knee issues.

Understanding the Duration of Knee Pain

Knee pain is a common ailment that affects people of all ages and activity levels. The duration of knee pain can vary significantly depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. In many cases, new pain or a flare-up of long-standing knee problems should begin to settle within 6 weeks without the need to see a healthcare professional. However, this timeline is not set in stone and can be influenced by various factors.

For acute injuries, such as sprains or minor strains, knee pain may subside within a few days to a couple of weeks with proper rest and home care. Chronic conditions, on the other hand, may persist for months or even years if left untreated. It’s crucial to understand that persistent knee pain lasting more than six weeks warrants medical attention.

Factors Affecting Knee Pain Duration

• Severity of the injury or condition
• Age and overall health
• Activity level and lifestyle
• Adherence to treatment and rehabilitation
• Underlying medical conditions

Is there a general timeline for knee pain recovery? While every case is unique, here’s a rough guideline:

1. Mild strains or sprains: 1-2 weeks
2. Moderate injuries: 3-6 weeks
3. Severe injuries or chronic conditions: 6+ weeks (may require medical intervention)

Common Causes of Knee Pain and Their Typical Duration

Knee problems can arise from various sources, each with its own expected duration and recovery time. Understanding the cause of your knee pain can help you better manage your expectations and seek appropriate treatment.

Injury-Related Knee Pain

Injuries are a frequent cause of knee pain, especially among athletes and active individuals. Some common injury-related causes include:

• Sprains and strains: Usually resolve within 2-4 weeks with proper care
• Meniscus tears: May take 6-8 weeks to heal, depending on severity
• Ligament injuries (e.g., ACL tear): Can take 6-12 months for full recovery, often requiring surgery
• Fractures: Healing time varies but typically ranges from 6-12 weeks

Age-Related Knee Pain

As we age, our knees become more susceptible to wear and tear, leading to various conditions:

• Osteoarthritis: A chronic condition that may require ongoing management
• Tendinitis: Can improve within 6-8 weeks with proper treatment
• Bursitis: Typically resolves within a few weeks to a few months

How does age affect the duration of knee pain? Generally, older individuals may experience longer recovery times due to decreased healing capacity and the presence of other health conditions. However, with proper care and management, even older adults can see significant improvements in their knee pain.

When to Seek Medical Help for Knee Pain

While many cases of knee pain can be managed at home, certain symptoms and situations warrant immediate medical attention. Recognizing these signs can help prevent further damage and ensure proper treatment.

Red Flags for Immediate Medical Attention

• Severe pain or swelling
• Inability to bear weight on the affected leg
• Visible deformity of the knee
• Fever accompanying knee pain
• Signs of infection (redness, warmth, tenderness)

When should you consult a doctor for ongoing knee pain? If your knee pain persists for more than six weeks despite home care measures, it’s advisable to seek medical evaluation. Additionally, if your knee pain interferes with daily activities or significantly impacts your quality of life, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional.

Self-Help Strategies for Managing Knee Pain

For many cases of mild to moderate knee pain, self-care measures can be effective in promoting healing and reducing discomfort. Implementing these strategies early on can help shorten the duration of your knee pain and prevent it from becoming a chronic issue.

The RICE Method

The RICE method is a widely recommended approach for managing acute knee injuries:

• Rest: Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain
• Ice: Apply cold packs for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours
• Compression: Use an elastic bandage to reduce swelling
• Elevation: Keep the affected leg raised above heart level when possible

Gentle Movement and Exercise

Contrary to popular belief, complete rest is not always the best approach for knee pain. Gentle movement and specific exercises can help maintain flexibility, strength, and promote healing. What are some safe exercises for knee pain recovery?

• Gentle knee bends
• Hamstring stretches
• Straight leg raises
• Stationary cycling (with low resistance)
• Swimming or water aerobics

Remember to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity as your pain improves. Always listen to your body and stop if an exercise causes increased pain.

The Role of Physical Therapy in Knee Pain Recovery

Physical therapy can play a crucial role in accelerating recovery from knee pain and preventing future issues. A skilled physical therapist can develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific condition and needs.

Benefits of Physical Therapy for Knee Pain

• Improved flexibility and range of motion
• Strengthened muscles supporting the knee joint
• Enhanced balance and coordination
• Proper technique for daily activities and sports
• Pain management through various modalities

How long does physical therapy typically last for knee pain? The duration of physical therapy can vary depending on the severity of your condition and your progress. On average, a course of physical therapy for knee pain may last 4-8 weeks, with sessions occurring 2-3 times per week. However, some individuals may require longer-term therapy or periodic check-ins to maintain their progress.

Medications and Other Treatment Options for Persistent Knee Pain

When self-care measures and physical therapy are not sufficient to alleviate knee pain, various medications and treatment options may be recommended by healthcare professionals.

Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen is another option for pain relief, especially for those who cannot take NSAIDs.

Prescription Medications

In some cases, stronger pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed. These can include:

• Prescription-strength NSAIDs
• Corticosteroids (oral or injected)
• Hyaluronic acid injections

Advanced Treatment Options

For severe or chronic knee pain that doesn’t respond to conservative treatments, more advanced options may be considered:

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
• Stem cell therapy
• Arthroscopic surgery
• Partial or total knee replacement

What factors determine the most appropriate treatment for persistent knee pain? The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the underlying cause of the pain, the patient’s age and overall health, activity level, and personal preferences. A thorough evaluation by an orthopedic specialist can help determine the most suitable approach for each individual case.

Preventing Recurrence and Maintaining Knee Health

Once your knee pain has subsided, taking steps to prevent its recurrence is crucial for long-term joint health. Implementing these strategies can help you maintain healthy knees and reduce the risk of future pain or injury.

Lifestyle Modifications

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your knees
• Wear appropriate footwear with good support
• Use proper techniques when lifting heavy objects
• Avoid high-impact activities if you have a history of knee problems

Regular Exercise and Strength Training

Engaging in regular physical activity and targeted exercises can help strengthen the muscles supporting your knees, improving stability and reducing the risk of injury. What are some effective exercises for maintaining knee health?

• Low-impact cardiovascular exercises (e.g., swimming, cycling)
• Strength training for quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles
• Balance and proprioception exercises
• Yoga or Pilates for flexibility and core strength

How often should you exercise to maintain knee health? Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with strength training exercises 2-3 times per week. Always consult with a healthcare professional or certified fitness instructor before starting a new exercise regimen, especially if you have a history of knee problems.

Regular Check-ups and Preventive Care

Scheduling regular check-ups with your healthcare provider or orthopedic specialist can help catch potential knee issues early on. They can assess your joint health, provide personalized advice, and recommend preventive measures tailored to your individual needs.

By understanding the typical duration of knee pain, recognizing when to seek help, and implementing effective self-care and preventive strategies, you can better manage knee discomfort and maintain optimal joint health. Remember that every individual’s experience with knee pain is unique, and it’s essential to listen to your body and consult with healthcare professionals when needed. With proper care and attention, you can minimize the impact of knee pain on your daily life and enjoy long-term joint health.

​Knee problems | NHS inform

Knee problems can cause a range of symptoms including:

• pain
• stiffness
• swelling

In many cases, new pain or a flare-up of long-standing knee problems should begin to settle within 6 weeks without the need to see a healthcare professional.

When to seek help

What causes knee problems?

Knee problems are common and can be caused by:

• injury
• growth spurts
• normal age-related changes

As you get older, normal age-related changes can cause your knee problem to flare-up now and again, often for no reason.

Can knee pain cause problems anywhere else?

You may feel some pain in your hip, or the muscles around your thigh or lower leg. This should improve as your knee problem gets better.

Self-help

There are a number of things you can do to help your knee problem.

Keeping your body moving is an essential part of your treatment and recovery.

How to get moving

Within the first 24 to 48 hours after your knee problem has started you should try to:

• reduce your activities but move as much as your symptoms allow
• put your leg in an elevated position, when resting
• move your knee gently for 10 to 20 seconds every hour when you’re awake
• avoid long periods on your feet

When using stairs it may help to:

• lead with your good leg when going upstairs to reduce the strain on your knee
• lead with your problem leg when going downstairs to reduce the strain on your knee
• use a handrail (if available) when going up and downstairs

After 48 hours:

• try to use your leg more – exercise really helps your knee and can relieve pain
• do whatever you normally would and stay at, or return to work – this is important and is the best way to get better

It’s beneficial to do specific exercises that can help in your recovery. They may be challenging at the beginning so just do what you can and try to build it up over time.

Exercises to help with knee problems

Benefits of keeping active

Keeping active’s the single best thing you can do for your general health.

Being physically active can:

• maintain your current levels of fitness – even if you have to modify what you normally do, any activity is better than none
• keep your other muscles and joints strong and flexible
• prevent a recurrence of the problem
• help you aim for a healthy body weight

Avoid sports or heavy lifting until you have less discomfort and good movement. Remember to warm up fully before you start sporting activities.

Pain treatments

The following can help to reduce the pain:

• pain medication – this can help you move more comfortably, which can help your recovery
• heat or ice packs

More about taking painkillers.

Treating with ice or heat

Heat or ice can be beneficial in the management of musculoskeletal pain.

Ice is most beneficial if your knee problem is related to an injury. You can try heat to help your pain levels if there’s no swelling and your symptoms are not related to a recent injury.

Never place ice or heat directly on your skin. Use a barrier, like a towel, to protect your skin from a burn.

How long you use ice as a treatment can vary. However, you should generally apply heat or ice for up to 15 minutes. You should also leave a few hours between treatments.

You should stop treating the area with ice or heat and seek advice from a medical professional if you notice an increase in redness, discolouration or blistering of the skin.

If you have any issues with circulation or sensation, you shouldn’t use ice or heat as a treatment for knee pain.

Work

It’s recommended you stay at or return to work as quickly as possible during your recovery. You don’t need to be pain and symptom-free to return to work.

Help and support

Following this advice, you should see gradual improvements over time.

You should see the biggest change in your symptoms within the first couple of weeks. Most problems should have improved within 6 weeks.

If your knee problem hasn’t improved within 6 weeks of following this advice, it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional about your symptoms.

Find out how to access MSK services in your area.

How Long Should You Wait to See a Doctor for Knee Pain?

Knee pain is a common problem that affects people of all ages. Because the knee is so complex, several injuries are common to the joint. These injuries can occur over time, during sporting events or other activities.

 It can be tempting to disregard knee pain — but you should never have to live with pain or weakness. If you are experiencing redness, significant swelling or severe pain, you should consult with one of our surgeons. They can discuss your options so your daily life activities can be pain-free once more.

Continue reading to learn more about knee pain and when you should see a doctor.  

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR

Most knee pain is the result of aging or continual wear and tear on the joint. Other knee problems are often the result of injury or a sudden change in movement. 

Mayo Clinic recommends the following treatment options for knee pain: 

• Seek immediate medical attention: If your knee injury is accompanied by a deformed joint, a popping noise, the inability to bear weight, intense pain or sudden swelling, you should seek immediate medical attention. 
• Schedule an office visit: If your knee injury results from a forceful impact, or if you experience significant swelling, redness, tenderness and warmth around the joint, significant pain or fever, you should make an appointment with your doctor. 
• Self-care: Not all knee pain requires medical treatment. If your knee pain comes on slowly, results from a minor injury or results from a more strenuous activity, it can sometimes be managed at home. You can try over-the-counter pain relievers and should follow the RICE model of self-care. 

POTENTIAL CAUSES FOR KNEE PAIN

Knee Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and is frequently seen in the knees. It is generally a result of wear and tear and age. Women 55 and older are more likely to develop knee osteoarthritis than men. Osteoarthritis can also be the result of genetics and is seen in patients who are overweight. Furthermore, it is more likely to occur in those constantly lifting heavy weights or athletes who have had knee injuries.

Treatment for osteoarthritis focuses on reducing pain and regaining mobility. If the patient is overweight, your doctor may first recommend weight loss. Exercise will also help strengthen the joint. Your doctor may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or recommend injections or a brace. We believe in conservative treatment, so while Mountainstate Orthopedic Associates has some of the most qualified and experienced doctors in the region, surgery is usually a last resort. There is no need to operate if, for example, the knee responds well to physical therapy and corticosteroid injection.

Knee Effusion 

A knee effusion occurs when fluid increases in the tissues surrounding the joint. It can happen to any joint but is particularly common in the knee. A knee effusion can result from anything that injures or inflames the knee. Knee effusions are often seen in those with arthritis (such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis). Gout can also cause knee effusion. 

Typically, your doctor will prescribe medications to reduce the swelling caused by a knee effusion. If your knee does not respond to those medications, your doctor may prescribe steroid medications or injections. Surgery is rarely needed to treat the swelling.

ACL Strain or Tear

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) provides stability to the knee. The ACL connects the thigh bone to the shin bone and is often injured by a sudden twisting motion (which makes it a common injury for athletes).  

Your doctor will perform an exam to assess the severity of the tear. Some ACL injuries can be treated without surgery. Your doctor will probably advise that you reduce your activity (perhaps wear a brace) and attend physical therapy. Your doctor may also recommend additional treatments. Severe ACL tears are incredibly complex; they often require reconstructive surgery to replace the torn ligament.

Meniscus Tear

The meniscus is a rubbery disc that provides a cushion to your knee. There are two menisci in each knee — one on each side. They help keep your knee stable by dispersing your weight across your knee. A meniscus tear is caused by a quick twist or turn, usually, while the foot is on the ground. Tears become more common as people age.

There are three types of meniscus tears: minor, moderate and severe. Minor tears cause pain and swelling that typically subsides in a few weeks. Moderate tears cause swelling and stiffness that may be accompanied by sharp pain when you move the knee. Severe tears can make the knee feel unstable and cause it to give way unexpectedly. The knee may “pop” as pieces of the torn meniscus may move into the joint.

The severity of the meniscus tear determines the treatment. Your doctor may recommend rest, physical therapy or arthroscopic surgery — depending on your activity level, age and how bad the tear is. The surgery is minimally invasive and typically requires a four to six-week recovery period.

Knee Bursitis

Knee bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa (small fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction and provide a cushion). People who kneel for extended periods (like gardeners, plumbers, etc.) have an increased risk of developing knee bursitis, along with those who play particular sports.

Treatment of knee bursitis can include rest, physical therapy, a corticosteroid injection or aspiration (a procedure to drain excess fluid). Surgery is a last resort for bursitis and is typically only recommended to those who don’t respond to other treatments or have recurrent/chronic bursitis.

Patellar Tendonitis 

Patellar tendonitis is a common injury or inflammation of the tendon that connects the kneecap (patella) to the shin bone. Patellar tendonitis often occurs from a repetitive impact on the knee, be caused by playing sports (especially sports that require a lot of jumping), doing household activities and more. It is most commonly seen in middle-aged adults as tendons lose elasticity with age. 

Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. Your doctor may recommend that you avoid the activities that aggravate the tendon and rest your knee. Applying ice to the joint can also be helpful. With more severe and persistent pain, your doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections, stem cell injections or physical therapy. Surgery is rarely needed for tendinitis.

TREATMENTS

There are many options to treat knee pain, but the treatment will depend on your knee pain’s cause and severity. 

Joint Preservation

Joint preservation is a way of restoring normal joint motion and function without replacement. At MOA, we use a combination of multi-modality treatment options that include activity modification, physical therapy, medications, injections and surgery. Just as every patient is different, each patient’s joint preservation strategy is personalized for their age, activity level, expectations and degree of joint dysfunction.

Knee Replacement Surgery

At MOA, we take great pride in the reputation and ability of our surgical staff. One of our now retired doctors designed and developed the artificial knee replacement we use today. Knee replacement has incredibly positive results for our patients, with a drastic reduction in pain and an overall improvement in their quality of life. We are proud to be the first and only ambulatory surgery center in the state of West Virginia to do outpatient total joint procedures.

At MOA, we believe that the time for a knee replacement surgery is when the patient is ready — not when the doctor recommends it. When the pain becomes unbearable and you are having trouble sleeping due to the discomfort, it may be time to discuss the procedure with your doctor.  

Download our free guide, “Guide to Knee Pain” to learn about the conditions listed above, treatment and more.

MOUNTAINSTATE ORTHOPEDIC ASSOCIATES: HOW CAN WE HELP? 

Mountainstate Orthopedic Associates is one of the region’s leading orthopedic practices. We take pride in the education and experience that each of our doctors holds.

We strive to keep you informed and active in the decision-making process from your initial appointment to the conclusion of your treatment. It is always our policy to be conservative with our course of treatment and to only recommend surgery if it is genuinely needed. With many of our surgical procedures, our patients are home the same day of surgery.

If you have knee pain, get in touch — we will schedule an appointment and create a plan to get you back to your normal activities.

References: 

Knee pain: Symptom When to see a doctor

How is corrective osteotomy of the knee performed at the Gelenk Clinic?| orthopedic clinic.

com

Left: normal direction of the knee joint without displacement. In the middle: knee joint with hallux valgus. Right: Knee joint with varus deformity. © Gelenk Clinic

Corrective osteotomy (correction of the axis) of the knee joint is a joint-sparing operation and can correct the axis of the patient’s lower extremity. This intervention is necessary to eliminate the incorrect distribution of the load. In this way the axis of the affected limb can be corrected close to the original. In addition, the operation stops or at least slows down the process of wear and tear due to arthrosis.

• Why can a corrective knee osteotomy slow down the wear process?
• How can corrective osteotomy prevent the need for total arthroplasty?
• What diagnosis is required for osteotomy?
• How is the operation carried out?
• Rehabilitation and postoperative care

Why can a corrective knee osteotomy slow down the wear process?

Knee osteotomy is performed in cases where osteoarthritis has developed on only one side of the knee joint.

The purpose of this operation is to relieve pressure on the damaged parts of the cartilage by changing the axis of the leg. Osteotomy significantly delays the need for knee arthroplasty.

When the axis of the lower extremities is displaced, the mechanical axis does not pass through the middle of the damaged bone, but with a displacement to the side (dashed line). This leads to unequal loading (red arrow) and automatic wear of the articular cartilage.© Gelenk-Klinik © Viewmedica

Corrective osteotomy corrects deformities of the axis of the lower extremities and distributes the load on the entire surface of the cartilage. © Gelenk-Klinik.© Gelenk-Klinik © Viewmedica

Deformities of the knee affect the ability of the joint to bear loads and can lead to injury to the articular cartilage. Axis correction surgery allows you to evenly distribute the load that acts on a small area of ​​cartilage surfaces during standing or walking. In this way, surgeons at the Gelenk Clinic prolong the life of the cartilage.

Correction of the axis in the knee also makes sense in the presence of the first damage to the articular cartilage . Partial removal of the load slows down the progression of arthrosis and significantly reduces pain in the knee joint.

Specialists of Gelenk Clinic perform axis correction in the knee joint as part of minimally invasive operations. By changing the axis of the legs and thus the direction of the load, the surgical intervention releases the damaged cartilage.

How can corrective osteotomy prevent the need for total arthroplasty?

Knee osteotomy – knee axis correction© Viewmedica

Preservation of the body’s own structures is always preferable to total or partial arthroplasty. Surgical corrective osteotomy preserves the natural function of the knee, since the surgeon does not make any manipulations on the joint itself.

Joint-sparing knee surgery eliminates the factors that lead to local overload of the articular cartilage. One of the main causes of arthrosis is valgus or varus deformity. These common misalignments place too much stress on the inside or outside of the knee, resulting in excessive wear on the injured area of ​​the knee joint.

What diagnosis is required for osteotomy?

Analysis of the axis of the lower limb before surgery, when the patient is standing. In this case, there is a varus deformity of the lower leg with an overload of the medial inner side of the joint. © Gelenk Clinic

First, a clinical examination is carried out, during which the orthopedist collects all the information regarding the existing defect of the knee joint. Then he examines the patient’s leg and approximately determines the axis of the limb. X-ray from the hip to the foot allows you to accurately determine the degree of deviation. Based on the obtained images, the doctor can plan the operation.

The patient is also referred for an MRI. During this study, meniscus injuries can be recognized, as well as localized damage to the articular cartilage can be distinguished from large changes.

How is the operation performed?

Tibial osteotomy is usually performed under general anesthesia. An incision is made on the inside or front of the knee to give access to the knee joint and lower leg. After that, the joint is examined. In order to align the axis of the tibia, it is cut at an angle and a wedge-shaped hole is created. This hole is filled with a bone graft, which is attached with a metal plate and screws. This helps keep the wedge in place. The incision is sutured, and the knee and leg are placed in a splint.

Rehabilitation and post-operative care

Usually, after a knee osteotomy, the patient stays in the clinic for three nights. The leg can be loaded with about half of the body weight already on the day of surgery. Full load is allowed, usually after about 4-6 weeks.

Physiotherapy significantly speeds up the healing process.

After a knee osteotomy, leisurely sports such as swimming or cycling can be started after four weeks. For other sports, you should consult with your doctor.

medical inquiry

Why does my knee hurt after running

Where to look for the problem: the main causes of pain

Why do my knees hurt while running? No doctor can give a definite answer to this question without a preliminary diagnosis. This is the case when it is difficult to make a diagnosis remotely: an examination is required. If the knee hurts after running once, then it can be assumed that the joint has received an increased load. It is better not to repeat such “feats” so as not to face more serious problems. However, most runners complain of regular pain that can occur at different times and with varying intensity.

One of the most common reasons for visiting a doctor is patellofemoral syndrome, or simply “runner’s knee”. The problem comes with regular practice. Pain occurs behind the kneecap and spreads from below from the inside. Usually the pain is quite intense, it can occur at the beginning of the workout and after it. However, runner’s knee is not a medical diagnosis, it’s just a collective name for a disorder that athletes face. Examination is required to identify the true causes. There are by analogy “cyclist’s knee” and “jumper’s knee”. These disorders differ in the nature of the pain syndrome and also manifest themselves in runners. True Causes of Pain:

1. Overload. If your joints hurt after running, then the reason may be a high load in each lesson or in a specific workout. Sometimes they turn to the doctor after major races, competitions. The main reason is microtrauma of the ligaments and tendons, as well as the associated inflammatory process.
2. Weak joints. They can be weakened due to lack of exercise or age, poor diet, lack of important trace elements. The load on such joints leads to the fact that they are injured. If knee joints hurt after running, it is recommended to tidy up the diet, start taking vitamin and mineral complexes.
3. Old injuries. Pain in the knees after running can be associated with injuries to the pelvis, joints, spine, meniscus. Perhaps the athlete needs treatment of the spine and joints in a specialized clinic.
4. Mistakes in choosing shoes, places for running. Any sneakers are not suitable for classes, they are selected taking into account individual characteristics. And running on a rough road with holes can unbalance even a professional runner.
5. Mistakes in running technique. How to run if your knees hurt? You can seek advice from a coach – it’s safer and cheaper than being treated later for the consequences of improper running.
6. Serious illnesses. The problem may be in the disease, you should not completely exclude the possibility of this.

It will be quite difficult to identify the source of the problem on your own if the pain did not appear for obvious reasons: overtraining, bad road, old injuries. Sometimes you can not rush to the clinic – with overtraining, the pain can go away in a few days. The main thing is not to let this happen again.

Treatment or self-treatment – what to do next?

What should I do if my knees hurt after a workout? Many athletes, experienced and beginners, prefer to wait. No one rushes to the clinic, and sometimes this leads to serious consequences. Self-medication can be recommended for obvious overtraining, when it is clear that everything will pass in a few days. However, with chronic overtraining, when the knees hurt constantly, or only one knee hurts, it is better to visit a doctor. He will identify the area of ​​​​inflammation and determine its true causes.

Patients with a high body mass index are at risk – they expose the joints to serious stress even without regular long-distance races. Such people need special shoes for running that will correct the load. The joints of the legs after running also hurt beginners who have not done anything like this before.

Beginners are advised not to self-medicate and to see a doctor just in case. The same goes for people with orthopedic problems. You should definitely visit a doctor if:

1. Joints of legs constantly hurt after running. When the pain is not tied to loads, improper shoes, the level of training of the athlete, the cause can be quite serious. In extreme cases, even if nothing serious is found, the doctor will recommend good vitamins, sessions with a chiropractor or osteopath.
2. The knee area swells, turns red, the pain lasts for a long time. Any of these symptoms indicate the presence of an inflammatory process. The reason may be an injury or disease of the joint.
3. There is a limitation of mobility in the area of ​​the knee joint. This is an alarm signal that indicates a disease.
4. Pain behind the knee after running.

Serious diseases that can lead to such problems include arthritis and arthrosis, synovitis, tendinitis, rheumatism, bursitis, periarthritis. And this is not a complete list of disorders that can be diagnosed. Diagnosis is carried out using special equipment, and in some cases, the patient’s blood is taken for analysis.

Who to contact?

If you find that you have pain under your knee after running, you need to see a doctor. Such problems are dealt with by an orthopedic traumatologist. In some cases, the doctor may refer the patient to another specialist. For example, in case of inflammation, it will be necessary to visit a rheumatologist. You may also need to undergo a series of diagnostic procedures. Treatment is prescribed after the final diagnosis. With severe pain, the patient may be prescribed analgesics and immobilization of the diseased joint. In sports, taping is used, which helps with pain from exertion, when the knee hurts from the outside after running.

The doctor will give detailed recommendations on what to do if your knees hurt from running. Contacting a specialist will eliminate the risk of missing the symptoms of a dangerous disease and identifying it in the early stages. In addition, the doctor can prescribe treatment based on the individual characteristics of the patient.

Prevention and risk reduction while running

Almost every athlete can face a situation where after a run a knee hurts. However, if you approach the organization of training with caution, you can avoid such problems. Pros recommend:

1. Get tested in advance. You can consult a doctor for the prevention of diseases if you plan to run. The specialist will prescribe the necessary tests and give recommendations. If diseases are observed, the doctor will prescribe treatment, after which it will be possible to start running after a while. In rare cases, running will have to be forgotten.
2. Contact a trainer. He will help with the choice of sports shoes and draw up a lesson plan. Periodization and load levels should be considered. Otherwise, overtraining and inflammation cannot be avoided.
3. Choose a suitable place to run.