Knee Pain
Chronic knee pain is a persistent ache or discomfort in the knee joint that has lasted for three months or longer. Though it is rarely a sign of a serious medical issue, it can nonetheless significantly limit your mobility and interfere with daily activities.
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What causes chronic knee pain?
There are many possible causes of chronic knee pain, including medical conditions, traumatic injuries, mechanical issues, and general wear and tear. Some of the most common causes include:
Medical conditions: Common issues can include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, and gout.
In rare instances, knee pain could be a sign of more serious issues, such as bone cancer or a blood clot. Though these are unlikely, it is still a good idea to consult with your doctor for any knee pain lasting three months or more.
NOTE: If your knee pain is accompanied by additional symptoms like swelling, reddish skin discoloration, unexplained shortness of breath, and tenderness that feels like a cramp, seek immediate medical attention.
Traumatic injuries: Traumatic injuries to the knee area, often due to a sudden blow or unnatural twist/movement, can result in sprained ligaments, torn cartilage, and possible nerve damage.
Though certain medical treatments can repair the physical damage caused by such injuries, pain can often continue and may require additional therapies to manage.
Mechanical issues: Certain physical ailments such as misalignment of the kneecap, overtight muscles, or flat feet can put excessive stress on the joint, leading to chronic pain over time.
General wear and tear: As with many pain conditions, the general wear and tear that comes with age can cause chronic knee pain. Overuse through continuous physical activity can cause inflammation of the tendons (tendonitis). Additionally, over time the lubricating fluids inside your knee joints can degrade, resulting in increased friction between bones.
What are symptoms of chronic knee pain?
The primary symptom of chronic knee pain is a consistent aching or throbbing pain in the knee. However, there are other symptoms that may present as well, including:
- Stiffness, especially in the morning or after inactivity
- Swelling or redness around the knee
- Difficulty bending or straightening the knee
- Popping or clicking sounds in the knee
- Weakness or instability in the knee
Symptoms may vary depending on the cause of knee pain.
How is chronic knee pain treated?
There are some at-home remedies that can help ease knee pain, including:
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- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers
- Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on your knee joints
- Using assistive devices, such as wearing a brace or walking with a cane
- Performing low-impact exercises to build strength and flexibility in the knee (you should always consult with a medical professional before beginning an exercise routine to relieve pain)
If you do not find relief from home remedies, Twin Cities Pain Clinic offers a variety of effective treatments for chronic knee pain:
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Peripheral nerve stimulation
An implanted device that uses electric pulses to block pain signals from a specific area of the body.
Additional treatments
Schedule an appointment with Twin Cities Pain Clinic to learn how we can help relieve your chronic knee pain.
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