Knee Pain - Causes and Treatment Options

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The knee is one of the most vital and pivotal structures in the human body. We rely on it to get around our daily lives. The bones, muscles, cartilage and ligaments that make up the joint must all work together to function normally without pain. But when disease or knee injury disturbs the normal functioning of this important joint, it can result in severe pain, muscle weakness and limited movement.

At Ortho Westmount, you’ll find personalized and expert care for your knee-related conditions and injuries. Our team’s goal is to help people recover from their injuries, put an end to their knee pain and get back to their active lives. In this post, we will discuss common causes of severe knee pain, and some of the knee pain treatment options we can offer you to relieve pain and restore mobility. 

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Common Knee Problems

Knee Arthritis

Knee arthritis is a condition that affects the cartilage of the knee joint. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that often affects the knee joint. Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease that can affect multiple joints throughout the body. Although arthritis is mainly an adult disease, some forms, such as juvenile arthritis, can affect children. 

Knee osteoarthritis can affect people of any age, but it is most common in older adults. Knee osteoarthritis can occur as a result of previous joint injury or overuse, but it often occurs for no known reason. Arthritis can be very painful, making it difficult to walk, climb stairs, or even stand for long periods of time due to severe inner knee pain or medial knee pain.  

There are a number of different approaches that can be taken to treating arthritis, and the best approach depends on the individual patient. In severe cases, knee replacement surgery may be necessary to provide patients significant relief from their symptoms and enjoy a good quality of life.

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Knee Injuries

Minor injuries are a common occurrence, especially among athletes, and one of the most common causes of knee pain and swelling. Knee joint trauma can range from a simple strain or sprain to more serious anterior cruciate ligament injuries, for example. 

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There are a variety of injuries that can cause knee pain, ranging from mild to severe. Some of the most common knee injuries include:

- ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) Tears: This is a serious injury that often requires surgery.

- MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament) Tears: This is a less severe injury, but can still be painful and may require physical therapy.

- Patellar Tendinitis: This is an inflammation of the tendon that connects the kneecap to the shinbone. Similar to patellofemoral pain syndrome, it can be painful and may make it difficult to walk or run.

- Meniscus tears: These are small tears in the cartilage that cushions the knee joint. They can be painful and may require surgery.

- Iliotibial band syndrome: This is an inflammation of the tissue that runs along the side of the knee. It can cause pain and stiffness, particularly when walking or running.

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Orthopaedic Surgery Options

There are a number of orthopedic surgery options available to treat knee pain and knee injuries. The type of procedure that is best for a patient will depend on the individual's symptoms, age, and overall health. For example, arthroscopic surgery is often used to treat knee pain that is caused by degenerative joint disease, while total knee replacement may be recommended for patients with severe arthritis. In some cases, physical therapy or other nonsurgical treatments may be sufficient to relieve knee pain. However, in many cases, orthopedic surgery provides the best opportunity for long-term relief from knee pain and disability.

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Total Knee Arthroplasty

Total knee arthroplasty surgery, also known as total knee replacement, is a procedure that can provide relief from chronic knee pain and help people regain mobility. In most cases, total knee arthroplasty surgery is performed on patients who have arthritis or other degenerative conditions that have caused the cartilage in their knees to break down. 

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Who are the best candidates for this type of surgery?

The best candidates for this type of surgery are those who have persistent pain and functional limitations despite nonsurgical treatments. Other considerations include the patient's age, activity level, and overall health. 

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Bilateral Knee Arthroplasty

Bilateral knee arthroplasty, also known as double knee replacement, is a surgical procedure to replace the worn-out or damaged joint surfaces of both knees. The procedure is usually recommended for patients who are suffering from severe arthritis pain and disability. 

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Who are the best candidates for this type of surgery?

Candidates for bilateral knee arthroplasty surgery typically have advanced arthritis that has not responded to other treatments, such as medication or physical therapy. Bilateral knee arthroplasty surgery can be a life-changing procedure for patients who are no longer able to enjoy activities that they once loved due to pain and disability.

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Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy is a procedure to examine the knee joint and repair injured structures in the knee using a camera. Several small incisions are made over the knee to insert the camera and instruments. 

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery that can be used to treat a variety of conditions such as torn cartilage, damaged ligaments, or inflamed tissue. Recovery times vary depending on the extent of the surgery, but most patients can expect to return to normal activities within a few weeks. 

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Who are the best candidates for this type of surgery?

The best candidates for knee arthroscopy are those who have a localized knee injury or condition that has not responded to conservative treatment measures, such as rest, ice, and physical therapy. Knee arthroscopy can also be beneficial for patients who have activity-related knee pain, such as athletes.

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Contact Ortho Westmount for Personalized Care for Your Knee Injury or Condition

At Ortho Westmount, knee pain is one of the many issues that we treat on a regular basis. Whether you are dealing with a knee injury or simply experiencing discomfort due to arthritis, our expert team can provide you with the care and treatment you need to find relief. 

No matter what is causing your knee pain, we will work with you to develop a treatment plan that will help you find relief and get back to your normal activities. Contact us today to learn more about our knee pain treatment options, a referral is not necessary to schedule a private consult with one of our surgeons.

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