What are the best medications for knee pain. How do over-the-counter options compare to prescription drugs. What are the potential side effects and precautions for different knee pain treatments. When should you seek medical advice for knee pain.

Understanding Knee Pain: Causes and Treatment Options

Knee pain is a common ailment that can significantly impact daily life. It may develop gradually or occur suddenly due to various factors. Understanding the root cause of knee pain is crucial for determining the most effective treatment approach.

Common Causes of Knee Pain

• Overuse or repetitive strain
• Arthritis (osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis)
• Baker’s cyst
• Joint infection
• Bursitis
• Torn cartilage
• Strains or sprains

The severity and underlying cause of knee pain will influence the choice of medication and treatment strategy. In many cases, a combination of medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications may be necessary to achieve optimal relief.

Over-the-Counter Medications for Knee Pain Relief

For mild to moderate knee pain, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can often provide sufficient relief. The two main categories of OTC pain relievers for knee pain are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are widely used for their ability to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Common OTC NSAIDs include:

• Ibuprofen (e.g., Motrin, Advil)
• Naproxen sodium (e.g., Aleve)

Can you take NSAIDs long-term for knee pain? While NSAIDs can be effective for short-term pain relief, long-term use may increase the risk of side effects. It’s important to follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare provider for prolonged use.

Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, is an analgesic that can help relieve pain and reduce fever. It’s often used for mild to moderate pain, including pain associated with osteoarthritis. Common brands include:

• Tylenol
• Panadol
• Actamin
• FeverAll

Is acetaminophen as effective as NSAIDs for knee pain? While acetaminophen can provide pain relief, it doesn’t have the anti-inflammatory properties of NSAIDs. For some individuals, especially those with inflammatory conditions, NSAIDs may be more effective. However, acetaminophen may be preferable for those who cannot tolerate NSAIDs or have certain health conditions.

Prescription Medications for Severe Knee Pain

When OTC medications are insufficient, a healthcare provider may prescribe stronger medications to manage knee pain. These can include higher-dose NSAIDs or specialized medications like COX-2 inhibitors.

Prescription-Strength NSAIDs

Higher doses of NSAIDs may be prescribed for more severe pain. Examples include:

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

COX-2 Inhibitors (Coxibs)

COX-2 inhibitors are a specialized class of NSAIDs that may have a lower risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Examples include:

• Celecoxib (Celebrex)
• Etoricoxib

Are COX-2 inhibitors safer than traditional NSAIDs? While COX-2 inhibitors may have a lower risk of gastrointestinal side effects, they still carry potential risks, including cardiovascular complications. The choice between traditional NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, considering individual risk factors and medical history.

Dosage Guidelines and Precautions for Knee Pain Medications

Proper dosing is crucial for both the effectiveness and safety of knee pain medications. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the medication packaging.

OTC Medication Dosages

• Ibuprofen: 800-1,200 mg per day for adults
• Naproxen sodium: No more than 1,375 mg per day
• Acetaminophen: Maximum 1,000 mg per dose, not exceeding 4,000 mg per day

Prescription Medication Maximum Daily Doses

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

What factors should be considered when determining the appropriate dosage? The appropriate dosage depends on various factors, including the severity of pain, individual response to the medication, age, weight, and other health conditions. Always consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable dosage for your specific situation.

Potential Side Effects and Risks of Knee Pain Medications

While knee pain medications can provide significant relief, they also come with potential side effects and risks. Understanding these risks is essential for safe and effective use.

NSAID Side Effects and Risks

NSAIDs, including both OTC and prescription strengths, may cause:

• Increased risk of heart attack or stroke
• Gastrointestinal issues (ulcers, bleeding)
• Kidney problems
• Allergic reactions
• Interactions with other medications

Who is at higher risk for NSAID complications? Individuals who smoke, have a history of heart problems, are over 65, or have certain health conditions may be at increased risk for NSAID-related complications. It’s crucial to discuss your medical history with a healthcare provider before starting NSAID treatment.

Acetaminophen Side Effects and Risks

While generally considered safer than NSAIDs, acetaminophen can cause:

• Liver damage (if taken in excessive amounts)
• Allergic reactions
• Interactions with other medications

How can you minimize the risk of acetaminophen-related liver damage? To reduce the risk of liver damage, always follow the recommended dosage, avoid alcohol while taking acetaminophen, and be aware of other medications that may contain acetaminophen to prevent accidental overdose.

Alternative and Complementary Treatments for Knee Pain

While medications can be effective for managing knee pain, they are often most beneficial when combined with other treatment approaches. Consider these complementary strategies to enhance pain relief and promote knee health.

Physical Therapy and Exercise

Targeted exercises and stretches can help strengthen the muscles supporting the knee, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. A physical therapist can develop a personalized exercise program tailored to your specific needs and condition.

Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce stress on the knees. Even modest weight loss can lead to noticeable improvements in knee pain, particularly for individuals with osteoarthritis.

Topical Treatments

Topical NSAIDs, capsaicin creams, or menthol-based products can provide localized pain relief with fewer systemic side effects compared to oral medications.

Hot and Cold Therapy

Alternating between heat and cold applications can help reduce pain and inflammation. Heat can improve circulation and flexibility, while cold can numb pain and reduce swelling.

Can alternative treatments replace medications for knee pain? While alternative treatments can be highly effective, they often work best in conjunction with appropriate medication. The ideal treatment plan varies for each individual and should be developed in consultation with a healthcare provider.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Knee Pain

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

Signs That Require 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)

Indications for Scheduling a Doctor’s Appointment

• Persistent pain lasting more than a few weeks
• Pain that interferes with daily activities or sleep
• Recurring swelling or stiffness
• Instability or frequent “giving way” of the knee
• Lack of improvement with self-care measures

How can you prepare for a doctor’s appointment regarding knee pain? Before your appointment, keep a pain diary noting when pain occurs, what activities trigger or worsen it, and what provides relief. This information can help your healthcare provider make an accurate diagnosis and develop an effective treatment plan.

Preventing Knee Pain: Strategies for Long-Term Joint Health

While not all knee pain is preventable, adopting certain lifestyle habits and practices can significantly reduce the risk of developing knee problems or exacerbating existing conditions.

Regular Exercise and Strength Training

Engaging in low-impact exercises that strengthen the muscles supporting the knee can improve joint stability and reduce the risk of injury. Swimming, cycling, and elliptical training are excellent options for maintaining knee health.

Proper Footwear and Orthotics

Wearing supportive shoes appropriate for your activities can help distribute weight evenly and reduce stress on the knees. Custom orthotics may provide additional support for individuals with specific foot or alignment issues.

Maintaining Flexibility

Regular stretching can help maintain flexibility in the muscles and tendons around the knee, reducing the risk of strains and improving overall joint function.

Ergonomic Considerations

Paying attention to ergonomics in daily activities, such as proper lifting techniques and workstation setup, can help prevent repetitive strain injuries that may affect the knees.

What role does nutrition play in preventing knee pain? A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, and vegetables, may help reduce inflammation and support joint health. Additionally, adequate calcium and vitamin D intake is crucial for maintaining strong bones, which in turn support healthy joints.

By understanding the various medication options, their potential benefits and risks, and incorporating complementary strategies for knee health, individuals can effectively manage knee pain and maintain an active, comfortable lifestyle. Remember to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and medical history.

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.

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• 10 years on the Ukrainian medical services market

• > 25 years of experience with leading experts

• Anna Vovchenko and Ruslan Sergienko are opinion leaders among orthopedists

• > 150,000 consultations

• > 7,500 operations

• All types of pain relief

• Operating block – according to world standards

• Availability of all medicines and consumables

• Single rooms

• Three meals a day

• Postoperative rehabilitation

• Pricing transparency

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