Knee Pain

Knee pain is a common problem that affects millions of men and women every single day. While women are more susceptible to knee pain than men, the overall prevalence of knee pain increases with age. Men and women between the ages of 85 and 90 years old are the highest risk group, which makes sense because many cases of knee pain are associated with regular wear and tear. To prevent knee pain from occurring, it is important to always use proper posture when sitting, walking, standing, lifting heavy objects, and sleeping. Knee pain is often preventable with a few minor changes in lifestyle and habits.

It is also important to point out that knee pain is often the sign of something amiss with another body part, such as a hip or ankle. Understanding the exact source of your knee pain is the best way to ensure you receive the correct treatment for your injury or condition. Your doctor may start by looking at your medical history and asking questions about the types of activities you do and when the knee pain is the worst. Here are a few considerations when determining the cause of knee pain and how to move forward:

• Where on the knee do you feel pain?

  For example, pain on the inside or medial side of the knee could be a sign of a medial meniscus tear, MCL injury, or arthritis. Pain on the outside of the knee is commonly caused by lateral meniscus tears, LCL injury, IT band tendonitis, or arthritis.

• What time of day is the pain worse?

  If you experience pain when first waking up in the morning, it could be a sign of early arthritis.

• Is the knee area swollen?

  If your knee is swollen, it usually means an internal joint structure, such as the ACL, has been compromised, or there is a fracture at the top of the bone.

• What kind of range of motion do you have?

  If the mobility of the knee has been affected, it could be a sign of arthritis or an acute injury, such as a tear.

• Do you hear any noises, such as popping or snapping?

  Popping, snapping, or cracking is completely normal, as long as it’s painless. If you experience a painful snap or pop, please contact Texas Partners Healthcare Group today and schedule an appointment for an evaluation.

Some of the most common causes of knee pain include injury, overuse, regular wear and tear, improperly lifting heavy objects, excessive stress on the knees, and arthritis. When you come into Texas Partners Healthcare Group, we will start with an evaluation to determine the cause of the pain. We understand how frustrating this type of pain can be and will work together to provide you with answers. To learn more about the treatments we offer for knee pain, or to schedule an appointment, please contact one of our locations in Allen, Anna, Dallas, Frisco, or McKinney.