Anybody can suffer from knee pain, and there is a high probability you might deal with this issue at some point in your life. There are numerous potential causes of knee pain, including cartilage injuries, ligament and tendon tears, fractures, arthritis, dislocations, overuse injuries, and more.
In most cases, acute knee pain Live Oak will resolve within several days. But what if it does not? Here is an outline of the common signs that it is time to consult a specialist to assess and treat your knee pain.
The Pain Does Not Go Away
Most specialists suggest that injuries, such as knee bruises or sprains, can be treated at home with the RICE technique. RICE therapy entails rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Over-the-counter medications could also help manage any discomfort and pain.
However, if you realize these solutions are not easing your pain, and symptoms persist for weeks, you should consider seeking a professional diagnosis. A sore knee that does not improve with time may signify a torn cartilage, meniscus, or muscle, which hardly resolves without a physician’s intervention.
You Experience Instability
Instability in your knee, or the sensation that your knee might collapse if you apply pressure on it, commonly signifies a ligament injury. Injuries to one or several knee ligaments, which hold the bones together, can weaken the bones’ connection.
If these ligaments become torn or stretched because of an injury, instability is one of the telltale signs. Although individuals can experience instability signs from less serious knee injuries, the only way to be certain is by undergoing a professional assessment.
Sudden Onset of Other Symptoms
If your knee is bothering you, pay close attention to the rest of your health. Common symptoms to watch out for include redness, chills, nausea, fever, swelling, or a warm sensation in the knee. The symptoms might signify a joint infection, also referred to as septic arthritis.
If bacteria infiltrate your joint, delaying treatment could result in permanent disability or even septic shock. For this reason, you should seek a professional diagnosis for your knee pain if you identify any sudden symptoms.
Pressing On The Knee Does Not Hurt
Sometimes, knee pain could stem from issues elsewhere within the body. Sciatica, which typically refers to radiating pain from the lower back into the lower legs, is a typical example of such knee pain. Issues in the hip can also cause pain in your knee.
If you cannot intensify your pain by touching or pressing your knee, your knee may not be injured. You should consult a specialist to determine the underlying cause of your knee pain.
You Experience Trouble Walking
It might seem obvious, but if your knee pain limits your range of motion, it might indicate a serious condition, such as cartilage injury. Typically, consider how many lifestyle adjustments you must make to accommodate the discomfort.
If you cannot visit the restroom without limping, cannot visit the grocery store, or perform other routine activities without the help of crutches, see a specialist. Your doctor will offer an accurate diagnosis and solutions to help restore your mobility.
Your knee is one of the most frequently used joints in the body. Therefore, any knee pain could be hugely disruptive to your everyday life, and overall life quality. Do not accept to live with this pain!
If you experience any of the concerns highlighted above, seek a professional consultation. Your doctor will accurately diagnose your knee pain, and suggest the best treatment to address the underlying cause of your pain.
