What are the best medications for knee pain. How do over-the-counter options compare to prescription drugs. What precautions should be taken when using NSAIDs or acetaminophen. When should you consult a doctor about knee pain medication.

Over-the-Counter Medications for Knee Pain Relief

Knee pain can significantly impact daily life, ranging from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. For those seeking relief, over-the-counter (OTC) medications often serve as the first line of defense. These readily available options can effectively manage mild to moderate knee pain without the need for a prescription.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are a popular choice for knee pain relief due to their dual action of reducing inflammation and managing pain. Common OTC NSAIDs include:

• Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
• Naproxen sodium (Aleve)

These medications work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for inflammation and pain. For adults, the recommended dosage of ibuprofen is 800-1,200 milligrams (mg) per day, while naproxen sodium should not exceed 1,375 mg daily.

Acetaminophen: An Alternative Pain Reliever

Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, is another effective OTC option for knee pain relief. Unlike NSAIDs, acetaminophen does not reduce inflammation but acts as an analgesic and antipyretic. It’s particularly useful for those who cannot tolerate NSAIDs or have certain risk factors.

Acetaminophen is available under various brand names, including:

• Tylenol
• Panadol
• Actamin
• FeverAll

The maximum single dose of acetaminophen for adults is 1,000 mg, with a daily limit of 4,000 mg. It’s crucial not to exceed these dosages to prevent potential liver damage.

Prescription Medications for Severe Knee Pain

When OTC medications fail to provide adequate relief, healthcare providers may prescribe stronger options to manage more severe knee pain. These prescription medications often include higher-dose NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors, also known as coxibs.

Prescription-Strength NSAIDs

Prescription NSAIDs offer higher doses of familiar medications, including:

• High-dose ibuprofen
• High-dose naproxen
• Diclofenac (Voltaren)

These medications can be taken orally as tablets or applied topically as gels or creams directly to the affected knee.

COX-2 Inhibitors (Coxibs)

COX-2 inhibitors are a specific class of NSAIDs designed to target inflammation with potentially fewer gastrointestinal side effects. Examples include:

• Celecoxib (Celebrex)
• Etoricoxib

The maximum daily doses for these prescription medications vary:

• Ibuprofen: 2,400 mg
• Naproxen: 1,000 mg
• Naproxen sodium: 1,375 mg
• Diclofenac: 150 mg
• Celecoxib: 400 mg
• Etoricoxib: 60 mg

Precautions and Side Effects of Knee Pain Medications

While medications can provide significant relief from knee pain, it’s essential to be aware of potential risks and side effects associated with their use. Understanding these factors can help patients make informed decisions about their pain management strategies.

NSAID Precautions

NSAIDs, while effective, carry certain risks that patients should be aware of:

• Increased risk of stroke or heart attack, particularly in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions
• Potential for ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, or perforations in the stomach or intestines
• Interactions with other medications, including anticoagulants, oral steroids, and certain antidepressants

These risks may be heightened for individuals who:

• Smoke
• Have a history of heart attack or stroke
• Have diabetes or high cholesterol
• Consume alcohol frequently
• Are older adults
• Have other health conditions

Acetaminophen Precautions

While generally considered safer than NSAIDs for many individuals, acetaminophen still requires careful use:

• Risk of liver damage if taken in excessive amounts
• Potential for severe liver injury requiring transplantation or even resulting in death if overdosed

Common Side Effects of Knee Pain Medications

Patients should be vigilant for potential side effects when taking knee pain medications. Some common side effects include:

NSAID Side Effects:

• Diarrhea
• Bloating and gas
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Nervousness

Acetaminophen Side Effects:

• Rash
• Itching
• Hives
• Swelling in the face, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing

Prescription NSAID and Coxib Side Effects:

• Indigestion and stomach pain
• Gas and bloating
• Ulcers
• Gastritis
• Sore throat
• Cold symptoms

Choosing the Right Medication for Your Knee Pain

Selecting the most appropriate medication for knee pain depends on various factors, including the cause and severity of the pain, individual health conditions, and potential risks. Here are some considerations to help guide the decision-making process:

Assessing the Cause of Knee Pain

Knee pain can result from numerous conditions, each potentially requiring a different approach to treatment. Common causes include:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Overuse injuries
• Baker’s cyst
• Bursitis
• Torn cartilage
• Strains or sprains

Identifying the underlying cause can help determine whether an anti-inflammatory medication (like NSAIDs) or a pure pain reliever (like acetaminophen) might be more effective.

Considering Individual Health Factors

Personal health history plays a crucial role in medication selection. Factors to consider include:

• Age
• Existing medical conditions (e.g., cardiovascular disease, liver disease, gastrointestinal disorders)
• Current medications
• History of allergies or adverse reactions to medications
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding status

These factors can influence the safety and efficacy of different pain relief options.

Evaluating Pain Severity and Duration

The intensity and persistence of knee pain can guide medication choices:

• Mild to moderate pain: Often manageable with OTC medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Severe or chronic pain: May require prescription-strength NSAIDs or other interventions

For acute injuries, short-term use of NSAIDs may be appropriate, while chronic conditions might necessitate a long-term management strategy.

Alternative and Complementary Approaches to Knee Pain Management

While medications play a crucial role in managing knee pain, they are not the only option available. Many individuals find relief through alternative and complementary approaches, either in conjunction with or as an alternative to traditional medications.

Physical Therapy and Exercise

Strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee can significantly reduce pain and improve function. A physical therapist can design a tailored exercise program that may include:

• Low-impact aerobic exercises (e.g., swimming, cycling)
• Strength training for quadriceps and hamstrings
• Flexibility exercises to improve range of motion
• Balance and proprioception training

Topical Treatments

Topical medications and treatments can provide localized relief without the systemic effects of oral medications:

• Capsaicin cream: Derived from chili peppers, it can help reduce pain signals
• Menthol-based rubs: Provide a cooling sensation that can temporarily alleviate pain
• Topical NSAIDs: Available in gel or patch form for direct application to the knee

Acupuncture and Acupressure

These traditional Chinese medicine techniques involve stimulating specific points on the body to relieve pain and promote healing. Some studies suggest acupuncture may be effective for certain types of knee pain, particularly osteoarthritis.

Nutritional Supplements

Certain supplements have shown promise in supporting joint health and reducing knee pain:

• Glucosamine and chondroitin: May help slow cartilage breakdown and reduce pain in osteoarthritis
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Have anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit joint health
• Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a compound with potential anti-inflammatory effects

It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, as these products can interact with medications and may not be suitable for everyone.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Knee Pain

While many cases of knee pain can be managed at home with OTC medications and self-care strategies, certain situations warrant professional medical attention. Recognizing these signs can help prevent complications and ensure proper treatment.

Signs of Serious Knee Injury

Immediate medical care may be necessary if you experience:

• Severe pain or swelling
• Inability to bear weight on the affected leg
• Visible deformity of the knee joint
• Popping or clicking sound at the time of injury
• Instability or feeling that the knee is “giving way”

Indications of Infection

Symptoms that may suggest an infection in or around the knee include:

• Fever
• Redness and warmth around the knee
• Severe pain that worsens rapidly
• Swelling that increases quickly

Chronic or Worsening Pain

Consider consulting a healthcare provider if:

• Pain persists for several weeks despite home treatment
• Pain gradually worsens over time
• Pain interferes with daily activities or sleep
• You experience recurring episodes of knee pain

Medication-Related Concerns

Seek medical advice if you experience:

• Side effects from pain medications that concern you
• No improvement in pain despite following recommended dosages
• Need for increasing doses of medication to achieve pain relief

Preventing Knee Pain: Strategies for Long-Term Joint Health

While treating existing knee pain is important, preventing future episodes can significantly improve quality of life. Implementing preventive strategies can help maintain knee health and reduce the risk of injury or chronic conditions.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Excess body weight places additional stress on knee joints. Losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce the risk of knee pain and osteoarthritis. Even a modest weight loss can make a substantial difference in knee health.

Regular Exercise and Strength Training

Engaging in regular physical activity helps maintain joint flexibility and strengthen the muscles that support the knee. Focus on:

• Low-impact aerobic exercises like swimming, cycling, or using an elliptical machine
• Strength training exercises targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles
• Flexibility exercises to maintain range of motion
• Core strengthening to improve overall stability

Proper Technique and Equipment

Whether you’re an athlete or engage in regular physical activities, using proper technique and appropriate equipment can prevent knee injuries:

• Wear shoes that fit well and provide adequate support
• Use proper form during exercises, especially when lifting weights
• Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts
• Use protective gear when participating in high-impact sports

Ergonomic Considerations

Pay attention to your posture and ergonomics in daily activities:

• Use proper lifting techniques, bending at the knees and hips
• Avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing
• Ensure your workspace is ergonomically set up to reduce strain on your joints

Nutritional Support for Joint Health

A balanced diet rich in nutrients that support joint health can help prevent knee pain:

• Consume foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds
• Include vitamin C-rich foods to support collagen production
• Ensure adequate calcium and vitamin D intake for bone health
• Consider foods with anti-inflammatory properties, such as berries, leafy greens, and nuts

By incorporating these preventive strategies into your lifestyle, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing knee pain and maintain healthy, functional joints for years to come. Remember, prevention is often easier and more effective than treatment, so investing in your knee health today can pay dividends in the future.

Best medication for knee pain: Types and side effects

Several medication options are available to treat knee pain, including over-the-counter drugs, prescription options, and injections.

Knee pain can start slowly and gradually worsen over time. The medication a person takes to treat knee pain will depend on the cause and severity of the pain.

There are many potential causes of knee pain, including:

• overuse
• arthritis
• Baker’s cyst
• infection in the joint
• bursitis
• torn cartilage
• strain or sprain

This article looks at the best medication for knee pain, home remedies, prevention of knee pain, and when to contact a doctor.

People may treat mild to moderate knee pain with over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen.

NSAIDs relieve inflammation and help with pain management. Some types of NSAIDs are available OTC to treat mild to moderate pain.

OTC NSAIDs includeibuprofen, available under brand names such as Motrin and Advil, and naproxen sodium, available under the brand name Aleve.

Dosage

An adult can take ibuprofen at 800–1,200 milligrams (mg) per day. For naproxen sodium, the daily dose should not be more than 1,375 mg.

A person should follow the instructions on the medication guide and never exceed the recommended daily dose.

Precautions

NSAIDs may increase the risk of stroke or heart attack, which may occur suddenly. These risks may be even higher in people who:

• smoke
• have previously had a heart attack or stroke
• have diabetes or high cholesterol

Doctors also associate NSAIDs with a risk of ulcers and holes and bleeding in the intestine and stomach. These risks may be higher for people who drink alcohol frequently, are older adults, or have other health conditions.

The risks associated with NSAIDs may increase for people who take the medication for a long time.

NSAIDs may also interact with certain medications, including:

• other NSAIDs
• anticoagulants, such as warfarin
• oral steroids, such as prednisone
• selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine and citalopram
• serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), such as duloxetine

Read on for the differences between SSRIs and SNRIs.

Potential side effects

NSAIDs such as naproxen may cause side effects, which can include:

• diarrhea
• bloating and gas
• constipation
• ringing in the ears
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• nervousness

People should speak with a medical professional to discuss the potential side effects of NSAIDs.

Acetaminophen is an analgesic or pain reliever that also reduces fever. Some people take acetaminophen to reduce pain caused by osteoarthritis, a type of arthritis that affects the joints, including the knee. People also take acetaminophen to relieve other mild to moderate pain.

Examples of medications that contain acetaminophen include:

• Panadol
• Tylenol
• Actamin
• FeverAll

Dosage

The maximum amount of acetaminophen a person should take in one dose is 1,000 mg. A person should not take more than 4,000 mg per day.

Precautions

If a person takes too much acetaminophen, there is a risk of liver damage. This may be severe, require a liver transplant, or be fatal.

Potential side effects

Possible side effects include:

• rash
• itching
• hives
• swelling in the:
  • tongue
  • face
  • throat
  • ankles
  • feet
  • legs
• blistering or peeling skin
• difficulty swallowing or breathing
• hoarseness

People should speak with a doctor if they experience these symptoms after taking acetaminophen.

A person may require stronger medication for more severe pain, which a doctor can prescribe. These may include higher dosage NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors, also called coxibs.

Examples of prescribed NSAIDs include:

• high dose ibuprofen
• high dose naproxen
• diclofenac (Voltaren)

Examples of coxibs include celecoxib (Celebrex) and etoricoxib. A person can take these medications as tablets orally or apply them to the knee as a gel or cream.

Dosage

According to the National Library of Medicine, the maximum daily dose of each medication is:

• ibuprofen: 2,400 mg
• naproxen: 1,000 mg
• naproxen sodium: 1,375 mg
• diclofenac: 150 mg
• celecoxib: 400 mg
• etoricoxib: 60 mg

Precautions

People who take NSAIDs or coxibs are at risk of gastrointestinal problems. There is a greater risk of complications if a person:

• drinks alcohol frequently
• takes corticosteroids
• takes SSRIs
• takes blood thinning medication
• takes several anti-inflammatory pain relief medications together
• has had stomach bleeding or gastritis
• has gastrointestinal conditions, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• has a bacterial infection with Helicobacter pylori, which can cause ulcers
• is 65 years or older

Potential side effects

Side effects of prescription NSAIDs and coxibs may include:

• indigestion and stomach pain
• gas and bloating
• ulcers
• constipation
• gastritis
• sore throat
• dizziness
• cold symptoms

If a person experiences any of these symptoms and is at high risk, they should consult a medical professional.

If a person has severe pain from injury or illness, such as arthritis, a doctor may administer an injection to treat the pain. Doctors may recommend hydrocortisone or hyaluronic acid injections.

Hydrocortisone injection

This type of injection is a corticosteroid. A doctor may administer a hydrocortisone injection directly into the knee joint.

This medication can treat knee pain from various causes, including injury, arthritis, and bursitis. The injection helps reduce swelling and pain and makes movement easier.

Dosage

A person may be able to have injections in the knee up to four times a year. The dosage can vary between 5 mg and 50 mg of hydrocortisone.

Precautions

Hydrocortisone may not be suitable for people who:

• have an infection
• have or have had depression
• have been in recent contact with a person who has:
  • measles
  • shingles
  • chickenpox
• have recently had vaccinations or are having vaccinations soon
• are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to become pregnant

Hydrocortisone may also cause complications in people who have:

• high blood pressure
• diabetes
• osteoporosis
• glaucoma
• unhealed wounds

People should speak with a doctor about the injections’ potential risk factors and complications.

Potential side effects

Side effects of hydrocortisone injections may include pain and swelling at the injection site and bruising.

Serious side effects include:

• signs of infection such as:
  • fever
  • chills
  • sore throat
  • ear or sinus pain
• depression or mood swings
• puffy face or weight gain in the upper belly or back
• swelling and throbbing in the legs or arms
• chest pain
• confusion and sleepiness
• changes to vision

A person can speak with a medical professional if experiencing any of the side effects described above.

Hyaluronic acid

A doctor may inject hyaluronic acid into the knee to increase the supply of the acid. This can help relieve pain and may improve other symptoms of conditions that affect the knee joint, such as osteoarthritis.

Dosage

Depending on which hyaluronic acid a doctor uses, they may administer one to five injections over several weeks.

Precautions

If a person is pregnant or breastfeeding, they should let a doctor know before starting this medication. People should also inform a doctor if they develop an infection in the knee or a skin problem.

Potential side effects

Side effects of hyaluronic acid injection may include pain and swelling at the injection site and difficulty moving the knee immediately after the injection. These symptoms are usually temporary, and applying ice helps ease the pain.

Less common side effects include:

• bleeding
• blistering
• burning or coldness
• discoloration of skin
• hives or rash
• joint infection
• inflammation
• itching or stinging
• lumps
• numbness and tingling
• redness, soreness, and tenderness
• ulceration and warmth at the injection site

People should seek medical attention if they experience mild or more severe reactions.

Knee pain may sometimes go away on its own. If the pain is not severe, a person may be able to treat it at home by:

• putting as little weight as possible on the knee
• avoiding standing for a long time
• using an ice pack on the knee for up to 20 minutes every 2–3 hours
• taking acetaminophen

Learn more about the home remedies for knee pain.

To help prevent knee pain, a person can:

• balance rest and exercise
• maintain a moderate body weight
• wear suitable footwear with arch supports

A person should contact a doctor about knee pain if:

• the pain is severe
• there is swelling in the knee
• there is no improvement after a week
• there is no movement
• the knee cannot bear weight
• the knee locks or buckles

The medication a person receives for knee pain can depend on the cause and severity of the pain.

A person may take OTC medication for mild to moderate pain, such as ibuprofen or naproxen. If the pain is more severe, a person may require medication prescribed by a doctor, such as a higher dose of NSAID or COX-2 inhibitors. A doctor may sometimes administer injections and inject hydrocortisone or hyaluronic acid into the affected area.

A person can also treat knee pain at home by resting, raising the knee, and applying ice.

Best medication for knee pain: Types and side effects

Several medication options are available to treat knee pain, including over-the-counter drugs, prescription options, and injections.

Knee pain can start slowly and gradually worsen over time. The medication a person takes to treat knee pain will depend on the cause and severity of the pain.

There are many potential causes of knee pain, including:

• overuse
• arthritis
• Baker’s cyst
• infection in the joint
• bursitis
• torn cartilage
• strain or sprain

This article looks at the best medication for knee pain, home remedies, prevention of knee pain, and when to contact a doctor.

People may treat mild to moderate knee pain with over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen.

NSAIDs relieve inflammation and help with pain management. Some types of NSAIDs are available OTC to treat mild to moderate pain.

OTC NSAIDs includeibuprofen, available under brand names such as Motrin and Advil, and naproxen sodium, available under the brand name Aleve.

Dosage

An adult can take ibuprofen at 800–1,200 milligrams (mg) per day. For naproxen sodium, the daily dose should not be more than 1,375 mg.

A person should follow the instructions on the medication guide and never exceed the recommended daily dose.

Precautions

NSAIDs may increase the risk of stroke or heart attack, which may occur suddenly. These risks may be even higher in people who:

• smoke
• have previously had a heart attack or stroke
• have diabetes or high cholesterol

Doctors also associate NSAIDs with a risk of ulcers and holes and bleeding in the intestine and stomach. These risks may be higher for people who drink alcohol frequently, are older adults, or have other health conditions.

The risks associated with NSAIDs may increase for people who take the medication for a long time.

NSAIDs may also interact with certain medications, including:

• other NSAIDs
• anticoagulants, such as warfarin
• oral steroids, such as prednisone
• selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine and citalopram
• serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), such as duloxetine

Read on for the differences between SSRIs and SNRIs.

Potential side effects

NSAIDs such as naproxen may cause side effects, which can include:

• diarrhea
• bloating and gas
• constipation
• ringing in the ears
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• nervousness

People should speak with a medical professional to discuss the potential side effects of NSAIDs.

Acetaminophen is an analgesic or pain reliever that also reduces fever. Some people take acetaminophen to reduce pain caused by osteoarthritis, a type of arthritis that affects the joints, including the knee. People also take acetaminophen to relieve other mild to moderate pain.

Examples of medications that contain acetaminophen include:

• Panadol
• Tylenol
• Actamin
• FeverAll

Dosage

The maximum amount of acetaminophen a person should take in one dose is 1,000 mg. A person should not take more than 4,000 mg per day.

Precautions

If a person takes too much acetaminophen, there is a risk of liver damage. This may be severe, require a liver transplant, or be fatal.

Potential side effects

Possible side effects include:

• rash
• itching
• hives
• swelling in the:
  • tongue
  • face
  • throat
  • ankles
  • feet
  • legs
• blistering or peeling skin
• difficulty swallowing or breathing
• hoarseness

People should speak with a doctor if they experience these symptoms after taking acetaminophen.

A person may require stronger medication for more severe pain, which a doctor can prescribe. These may include higher dosage NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors, also called coxibs.

Examples of prescribed NSAIDs include:

• high dose ibuprofen
• high dose naproxen
• diclofenac (Voltaren)

Examples of coxibs include celecoxib (Celebrex) and etoricoxib. A person can take these medications as tablets orally or apply them to the knee as a gel or cream.

Dosage

According to the National Library of Medicine, the maximum daily dose of each medication is:

• ibuprofen: 2,400 mg
• naproxen: 1,000 mg
• naproxen sodium: 1,375 mg
• diclofenac: 150 mg
• celecoxib: 400 mg
• etoricoxib: 60 mg

Precautions

People who take NSAIDs or coxibs are at risk of gastrointestinal problems. There is a greater risk of complications if a person:

• drinks alcohol frequently
• takes corticosteroids
• takes SSRIs
• takes blood thinning medication
• takes several anti-inflammatory pain relief medications together
• has had stomach bleeding or gastritis
• has gastrointestinal conditions, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• has a bacterial infection with Helicobacter pylori, which can cause ulcers
• is 65 years or older

Potential side effects

Side effects of prescription NSAIDs and coxibs may include:

• indigestion and stomach pain
• gas and bloating
• ulcers
• constipation
• gastritis
• sore throat
• dizziness
• cold symptoms

If a person experiences any of these symptoms and is at high risk, they should consult a medical professional.

If a person has severe pain from injury or illness, such as arthritis, a doctor may administer an injection to treat the pain. Doctors may recommend hydrocortisone or hyaluronic acid injections.

Hydrocortisone injection

This type of injection is a corticosteroid. A doctor may administer a hydrocortisone injection directly into the knee joint.

This medication can treat knee pain from various causes, including injury, arthritis, and bursitis. The injection helps reduce swelling and pain and makes movement easier.

Dosage

A person may be able to have injections in the knee up to four times a year. The dosage can vary between 5 mg and 50 mg of hydrocortisone.

Precautions

Hydrocortisone may not be suitable for people who:

• have an infection
• have or have had depression
• have been in recent contact with a person who has:
  • measles
  • shingles
  • chickenpox
• have recently had vaccinations or are having vaccinations soon
• are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to become pregnant

Hydrocortisone may also cause complications in people who have:

• high blood pressure
• diabetes
• osteoporosis
• glaucoma
• unhealed wounds

People should speak with a doctor about the injections’ potential risk factors and complications.

Potential side effects

Side effects of hydrocortisone injections may include pain and swelling at the injection site and bruising.

Serious side effects include:

• signs of infection such as:
  • fever
  • chills
  • sore throat
  • ear or sinus pain
• depression or mood swings
• puffy face or weight gain in the upper belly or back
• swelling and throbbing in the legs or arms
• chest pain
• confusion and sleepiness
• changes to vision

A person can speak with a medical professional if experiencing any of the side effects described above.

Hyaluronic acid

A doctor may inject hyaluronic acid into the knee to increase the supply of the acid. This can help relieve pain and may improve other symptoms of conditions that affect the knee joint, such as osteoarthritis.

Dosage

Depending on which hyaluronic acid a doctor uses, they may administer one to five injections over several weeks.

Precautions

If a person is pregnant or breastfeeding, they should let a doctor know before starting this medication. People should also inform a doctor if they develop an infection in the knee or a skin problem.

Potential side effects

Side effects of hyaluronic acid injection may include pain and swelling at the injection site and difficulty moving the knee immediately after the injection. These symptoms are usually temporary, and applying ice helps ease the pain.

Less common side effects include:

• bleeding
• blistering
• burning or coldness
• discoloration of skin
• hives or rash
• joint infection
• inflammation
• itching or stinging
• lumps
• numbness and tingling
• redness, soreness, and tenderness
• ulceration and warmth at the injection site

People should seek medical attention if they experience mild or more severe reactions.

Knee pain may sometimes go away on its own. If the pain is not severe, a person may be able to treat it at home by:

• putting as little weight as possible on the knee
• avoiding standing for a long time
• using an ice pack on the knee for up to 20 minutes every 2–3 hours
• taking acetaminophen

Learn more about the home remedies for knee pain.

To help prevent knee pain, a person can:

• balance rest and exercise
• maintain a moderate body weight
• wear suitable footwear with arch supports

A person should contact a doctor about knee pain if:

• the pain is severe
• there is swelling in the knee
• there is no improvement after a week
• there is no movement
• the knee cannot bear weight
• the knee locks or buckles

The medication a person receives for knee pain can depend on the cause and severity of the pain.

A person may take OTC medication for mild to moderate pain, such as ibuprofen or naproxen. If the pain is more severe, a person may require medication prescribed by a doctor, such as a higher dose of NSAID or COX-2 inhibitors. A doctor may sometimes administer injections and inject hydrocortisone or hyaluronic acid into the affected area.

A person can also treat knee pain at home by resting, raising the knee, and applying ice.

Knee pain: causes, treatment, which doctor to consult

According to statistics, about 80% of people have experienced knee pain. Moreover, a pronounced pain syndrome may be accompanied by other symptoms: a feeling of weakness (as if the legs give way), clicking when moving, stiffness, inability to straighten the leg.

What causes pain in or under the knee? Is there an effective treatment? Which doctor deals with this problem?

Causes of knee pain

The most common reason for knee pain is an injury:

• A fracture of the knee joint is accompanied by very strong, sharp pain. It becomes more intense if you press on the damaged area. With a fracture, the joint swells, so you won’t be able to bend your knee.

• A dislocation is a displacement of bones. Accompanied by swelling of the knee, severe pain syndrome. A dislocation is not as harmless as it might seem. With an injury of this type, the joint capsule is often torn, tendons, nerves, and ligaments are damaged. If you do not turn to an orthopedic traumatologist in time or completely ignore a visit to a specialist, a habitual dislocation may develop. In this case, the joints and bones can move even with a slight load.

• When ligaments and tendons are torn, a crunch is heard, clicks are clearly distinguished during movement. The joint becomes too mobile. The pain is sharp, as if “shooting”. Theoretically, a person can move around, but when walking, the pain in the knee will be more intense.

• A meniscus tear most often involves a strong blow, as a result of which the knee joint begins to hurt, lose mobility, and swell. A torn meniscus often does not act as an independent injury: it is diagnosed in 75% of cases of knee joint injuries. A torn meniscus often occurs in athletes, dancers, and ballet dancers. But such damage also occurs in everyday life – for example, with a sharp movement, heavy physical exertion or a fall.

By the way, about sports. Runners’ knees often hurt – there is even such a thing as runner’s knee syndrome. Runner’s knee syndrome is a common sports injury in which the cartilage tissue of the patella softens and deforms. The injury occurs as a result of high loads on the knees. By the way, it affects not only runners, but also cyclists, fans of hiking, football players.

Which doctor treats knee pain?

If you are worried about knee pain, the logical question is: which doctor to make an appointment with. In case of pain caused by an injury, you should contact an orthopedic traumatologist as soon as possible.

The doctor will conduct a survey and examination of the patient, to clarify the diagnosis, he will send for examination. By the way, with knee injuries, only x-rays are not always prescribed. For example, when a meniscus is torn, it is not informative, so the patient is referred for an ultrasound of the joint or an MRI of the joints. An MRI will allow you to fully “see” the joint and assess its condition. In case of a fracture and dislocation of the knee, an x-ray is recommended (usually in several projections), in some cases an MRI is prescribed.

In addition, to clarify the diagnosis, the results of laboratory tests are required – most often this is a general and biochemical blood test.

Treatment of knee pain

To prescribe effective treatment, you must first identify the cause of the pain syndrome. For example, when a meniscus is torn, anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed, the knee is fixed with a bandage. Please note that in the treatment of any knee injury, it is important to ensure that the injured area has complete rest. Splints and splints, which are needed for immobilization, will help reduce the load on the joint. Taping is also actively used – the so-called fixation of the joint with adhesive tapes-teips.

Additionally, the patient is prescribed painkillers that stop the pain syndrome. It can be tablets, ointments or gels.

In some cases, surgery is required. So, with a complete rupture of the ligaments of the knee joint, a low-traumatic operation is performed – arthroscopy.

Massage, reflexology, therapeutic exercises also help to cope with pain, strengthen the knee joint, speed up recovery. These methods “work” due to the fact that they help improve muscle tone, activate blood circulation in the knee joint.

The complex of services in the field of traumatology and orthopedics is provided by experienced specialists of the Scandinavian Health Center. The doctors of our multidisciplinary medical center treat injuries and post-traumatic complications, arthrosis, dislocations, bursitis, etc. In our clinic, you can undergo the necessary examinations, visit a physiotherapist, masseur. We offer affordable prices for services, regularly hold profitable promotions.

To make an appointment with a traumatologist, fill out the online form or contact our representatives by phone +7 (495) 645-00-54. You can also use the feedback form.

Knee pain – RZD-Medicine, Orsk

Symptoms The localization and intensity of knee pain may vary depending on the cause of the knee pain. stiffness

– Redness in the knee joint

– Weakness or instability in the knee joint

– Clicking or cracking in the joint

If symptoms are present, it is essential to seek medical attention.

Causes

Knee pain is a fairly common complaint in people and occurs at any age. Pain can be the result of an injury, such as a torn ligament or a damaged meniscus. Knee pain can also be caused by a variety of conditions, including various types of arthritis, gout, and infections, but the most common cause is trauma.

Trauma can damage any of the ligaments, tendons, or fluid-filled sacs that surround the joint, as well as the bones, cartilage, and ligaments that make up the joint itself.

Risk factors

A number of factors can increase the risk of knee problems and pain, including:

– Being overweight. Being overweight or obese puts more stress on the knee joints, even when performing normal physical activities such as walking or climbing or descending stairs.

– Biomechanical problems. Flat feet can significantly increase the risk of knee problems.

– Lack of muscle strength and elasticity. Lack of muscle strength and flexibility are among the leading causes of injury.

– Some sports. When practicing some sports, there is an accentuated load on the knee joint. Alpine skiing with rigid ski boot bindings and a high risk of falls, jumping and turning when playing basketball, and sprinting with frequent dropping of the knee all increase the risk of injury.

– Presence of previous injuries. If there is a history of previous injuries, the likelihood of a knee injury is much higher.

Diagnostics

As a rule, orthopedic or traumatologists deal with these problems. The doctor, first of all, at the consultation is interested in answers to the following questions:

– When did the symptoms appear and how intense are they?

– Does the patient go in for sports and what kind?

– Has the patient noticed pain in the knee before, what was the reason?

After receiving information about the symptoms and medical history, the doctor examines the knee joint.

As a rule, the doctor makes a preliminary diagnosis based on the initial examination. But to confirm the diagnosis, it is often necessary to connect instrumental research methods.

Imaging methods:

– X-ray is the first choice, especially if it is necessary to rule out bone fractures.

– Computed tomography is more informative than radiography and allows diagnosing both bone pathology and changes in soft tissues.

– Ultrasound is a fairly informative method for studying the pathology of muscle and ligament tissue and functional disorders.

– Magnetic resonance imaging – allows very high quality visualization of changes in the soft tissue structures of the knee joint (ligaments, tendons, cartilage and muscles).

Treatment

Conservative treatment:

With minor pain in the knee, a good effect of conservative treatment is possible, which includes various methods of physiotherapy, therapeutic physical culture (exercise therapy), wearing an orthosis, unloading the joint, applying pressure dressings and local application of cold (for acute knee injuries), drug treatment. But in some cases, knee pain can lead to the need for surgical treatment.

Surgical treatment:

In the presence of a knee injury, surgery is often required, but as a rule, it is not always necessary to perform an urgent operation, unless it is a fracture.