What are the most common causes of knee pain?
Knee pain is one of the most common medical complaints among adults in the U.S. Even children and teens experience knee pain, most commonly as a result of athletic participation. Knee pain can be caused by many factors, including:
- Arthritis
- Overuse injuries
- Direct impact injuries, including slip-and-fall accidents and car accidents
- Twisting or torqueing injuries, which most commonly occur during sports and other activities that require quick changes of direction
- Repeated heavy lifting, bending, or kneeling
Knee injuries tend to occur most often in athletes and people who are overweight or obese. Many knee problems also become more prevalent with older age, and some types of knee pain can be caused by problems in the hips or lower back. Pain is often accompanied by other symptoms, including stiffness, swelling, and popping or clicking noises when the knee joint is bent or straightened.
How is the cause of knee pain determined?
Because knee pain can affect different areas or components of the joint and can involve other areas of the body like the hips and back, a careful diagnosis is essential to determining the underlying cause of pain and other symptoms. At the office, the doctor uses a series of passive and active manipulations of the joint to determine the motions and actions that cause symptoms to occur. In some cases, x-rays or other diagnostic imaging techniques may be needed for accurate diagnosis.
How does an osteopathic doctor treat knee pain?
At Orange County Pain & Rehab Clinic, the doctor focuses on treating all the causes of joint pain, including contributory causes like poor posture. Treatment may include stretching and strengthening exercises to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and improve range of motion in the joint as well as massage aimed at releasing tension in muscles and other soft tissues. In some cases, pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications may be used or bracing may be prescribed to support the joint during healing.
