Six Causes of Knee Pain and When You Should See a Doctor

Knee pain is a common issue for people of all ages. Various factors, including injury, arthritis or overuse, can cause it. While some knee pain can be treated at home with rest and over-the-counter pain medication, other types of pain require medical attention. Below are six common causes of knee pain and when you should see a doctor.

Common Causes of Knee Pain

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a leading cause of knee pain in people over 50. It occurs when the knee joint cartilage begins to wear down, leading to pain, stiffness and swelling.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune and inflammatory disorder that can affect the knee joint. It causes the lining of the joint to become inflamed, leading to pain, stiffness and swelling.

Meniscus Tear

A meniscus tear is a painful knee injury that occurs when the knee is twisted or bent forcefully. It can cause discomfort, swelling and difficulty moving the knee.

Ligament Injury

Ligament injuries, such as a torn ACL or MCL, can cause severe knee pain and instability. These injuries often occur during sports or other physical activities.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome, also called runner’s knee, is a common condition that causes pain around the kneecap. It can be caused by injury, overuse or kneecap misalignment.

Bursitis

Bursitis occurs when the tiny fluid-filled sacs around the knee joint become inflamed. It can cause pain and swelling around the knee.

When Should You See a Doctor for Your Knee Pain?

If you have knee pain, it is vital to seek medical attention. At Robotic Hip and Knee Replacement LA, we specialize in diagnosing and treating knee pain.

If you have any of these symptoms, it is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible:

• Sudden onset of severe pain
• Pain that persists for several days
• Swelling or redness
• Limited range of motion

We Can Help Relieve Your Knee Pain

If you are experiencing knee pain, do not wait to seek medical attention. Delaying medical treatment for knee pain can lead to further damage and complications. Seeking medical attention early can help prevent additional injury or complications.

Do not let knee pain keep you from enjoying your daily activities. Instead, contact Robotic Hip and Knee Replacement LA to book a consultation with one of our experienced orthopedic surgeons and find out how we can help relieve your knee pain.