Knees

Knee pain conditions can prevent you from performing daily tasks. However, determining the cause of knee pain requires the help of professionals.

Our team at Orthopedic Physician Associates provides accurate diagnoses and comprehensive treatment plans. Everyone deserves to walk, run, and dance without knee pain slowing them down. 

If you experience discomfort, trouble walking, or pain resulting from a knee injury, seek medical attention immediately. Treatable knee conditions may worsen over time without the proper care. Continue reading to learn more about knee conditions & treatments in Burien.  

Common Knee Conditions and Treatments for Knee Pain 

Over 100 million Americans suffer from knee pain. Instead of self-diagnosing knee pain, trust our professionals at Orthopedic Physician Associates.

We have years of experience developing knee pain treatments and diagnosing orthopedic conditions of the knee. Knee pain can result from a wide range of conditions, but the following are the most common causes.

Arthritis 

Knee arthritis refers to the inflammation and weakening of knee joint cartilage. Everyone, from athletes to musicians, may develop arthritis at some point.

Our knees support our bodies daily, eventually leading to the deterioration of cartilage and knee bones. The most common symptoms of knee arthritis include the following: 

• Trouble walking 
• Knee pain 
• Swelling of the knee 
• Stiffness 
• Knee buckling 

Common treatments for knee arthritis include moderate exercise to strengthen cartilage around the knee, warm and cold compresses to reduce inflammation, and shock-absorbing inserts in shoes to promote mobility and reduce knee pain. 

Kneecap Fractures 

Kneecap fractures result from breaking the patella bone on the front of the knee joint. The patella bone rests securely in a tendon protecting the knee joint.

Kneecap fractures cause severe pain and discomfort if not treated properly. Ligaments connect the patella to the thigh muscles and the tibia, providing stability for walking, running, and all mobility. 

Kneecap fractures typically occur in patients who have fallen, been hurt in an accident, or experienced sports-related injuries. Standard treatment options for kneecap fractures include the following: 

• Casting the knee to reduce pressure on joints 
• Rest for several weeks 
• “Figure-Eight” bonding of the knee joint 

Kneecap Dislocations 

Kneecap dislocations refer to the moving or shifting of the patella bone of the knee joint. When the patella bone shifts from its standard location, the knee loses strength and becomes more vulnerable to damage. Dancers and athletes commonly experience kneecap dislocations when using their feet to change directions rapidly. 

Kneecap dislocations require at least six weeks to heal, and most patients fully recover. Medical professionals perform reduction techniques to move the patella back to its original position. Rest, warm and cold compresses, and elevation of the affected knee help encourage healing and relieve knee pain. 

Loose Bodies Trapped in the Kneecap

Loose bodies trapped in the kneecap refer to pieces of cartilage that become detached and exacerbate knee joint conditions. Symptoms of this condition can include: 

• Swelling
• Discomfort 
• Locking
• Trouble walking 

Knees affected by loose bodies require minimally invasive surgery. Doctors utilize knee arthroscopy techniques to clear loose bodies out of the knee. Recovery from knee arthroscopy typically takes two to four weeks with proper rest, knee elevation, and preventive measures. 

ACL Injuries 

ACL injuries include tears of the anterior cruciate ligament, which connects the thigh bone to the shinbone at the knee joint. Patients who play sports most commonly experience ACL injuries during high jumps, quick footing, and rapid changes in direction. Patients undergoing ACL injuries often reference a “popping” sound within their knee at the time of injury. 

Depending on the severity of the ACL injury, you may require surgery. Arthroscopy and ACL reconstruction help repair damaged knee joints from trauma. To boost recovery from ACL injuries, utilize warm compressions, knee elevations, and rest for at least six to eight weeks.  

Other Common Knee Conditions

Other common knee conditions include the following: 

• Obesity
• Bursitis 
• Meniscal Tear 
• Patellar Tendinitis 
• Sprained Kneecaps 

Understanding common knee conditions & treatments in Burien can help you avoid knee-related injuries. Always speak to your local orthopedic experts to receive the proper diagnosis for your knee pain.

Instead of living your life distressed by knee pain, let our professionals at Orthopedic Physician Associates alleviate your pain.  

Trust Orthopedic Physician Associates for All Your Knee Conditions & Treatments in Burien  

Orthopedic Physician Associates proudly serves the Burien, Washington community. Our doctors work diligently to provide patients with relief from knee-related trauma, injury, and pain.

To learn more about sprained knee treatments, knee treatments without surgery, and the best treatments for knee pain, contact us at Orthopedic Physician Associates at 206-386-2600 to request your appointment today! 

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