Understanding Knee Pain
It's time to get back on the move and do the things you love to do.
Take the first step towards understanding your joint pain and treatment options.
KNEE PAIN
The knee is the largest joint in the body and is central to nearly every routine activity. The knee joint is formed by the ends of 3 bones:
-
The lower end of the thigh bone, or femur.
-
The upper end of the shin bone, or tibia.
-
The kneecap, or patella.
​
Thick, tough tissue bands called ligaments connect the bones and stabilize the joint.
A smooth, plastic like lining called cartilage covers the ends of the bones and prevents them from rubbing against each other, allowing for flexible and nearly frictionless movement. Cartilage also serves as a shock absorber, cushioning the bones from the forces between them. Finally a soft tissue called synovium lines the joint and produces a lubricating fluid that reduces friction and wear.
​
What is Osteoarthritis (OA)?
​
Sometimes called degenerative arthritis because it is a "wearing out" condition involving the breakdown of cartilage in the joints. When cartilage wears away, the bones rub against each other, causing pain and stiffness
​
Diagnosis
Knee conditions should be evaluated by an orthopedic surgeon for a proper diagnosis and treatment. A detailed medical history and physical examination of the knee are crucial for the diagnosis. The surgeon may also conduct diagnostic imaging studies such as X-rays, MRI scans, CT scans, and ultrasound.
​
Treatment
Treatment options depend upon the underlying cause responsible for knee pain. Some of the common treatment options for knee pain include:
-
rest, ice and heat application
-
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
-
physical therapy
-
cortisone injections.
-
viscosupplementation
-
surgery
Minimally invasive, robotic assisted joint replacement
Patient specific surgical plans for superior recovery