Knee Pain

Knee pain is one of the most common orthopedic complaints, affecting people of all ages and activity levels. The knee is a complex joint that bears significant weight and stress with every step, making it vulnerable to injury and wear over time.

Knee pain can originate from various structures within and around the joint, including the bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, bursae, and surrounding muscles. Common causes include knee arthritis, meniscal tears, ligament injuries, bursitis, and overuse conditions like patellofemoral pain syndrome.

At Mountain Spine & Orthopedics, our knee specialists use comprehensive evaluation including physical examination, X-rays, and MRI to identify the exact cause of knee pain and create a personalized treatment plan that addresses both symptoms and underlying causes.

• Pain that may be sharp, dull, aching, or burning, depending on the cause
• Swelling that may develop immediately after injury or gradually over time
• Stiffness, especially in the morning or after prolonged sitting
• Reduced range of motion or difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee
• Instability or a feeling that the knee may give way
• Clicking, popping, or grinding sensations during movement
• Pain that worsens with activity, walking, climbing stairs, or bearing weight

Several factors can increase the risk of developing knee pain:

• Advancing age, which increases the likelihood of arthritis and degenerative changes
• Previous knee injuries or trauma
• Overuse from repetitive activities or high-impact sports
• Obesity, which places increased stress on the knee joint
• Muscle weakness or imbalances around the knee
• Certain occupations or activities that stress the knee (kneeling, squatting, running)
• Structural abnormalities or biomechanical issues
• Family history of knee problems or arthritis

Diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination to assess range of motion, strength, stability, and identify specific movements that reproduce the pain. Our specialists use various clinical tests to differentiate between different causes of knee pain.

We offer complimentary imaging including X-rays to evaluate bone structure and joint space, and MRI review to assess soft tissues like cartilage, menisci, and ligaments. In some cases, ultrasound or CT scans may be used to provide additional diagnostic information and guide treatment planning.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Initial treatment typically focuses on conservative measures, including activity modification, physical therapy referrals to strengthen knee stabilizers and improve flexibility, and anti-inflammatory medications. Weight management can also significantly reduce stress on the knee joint.

Injection or Interventional Care

For patients with persistent pain, corticosteroid injections or biologic injections (such as PRP or hyaluronic acid) may provide relief by reducing inflammation and improving joint lubrication. These injections can be particularly effective for knee arthritis or bursitis.

Surgical Treatment Options

When conservative measures fail to provide adequate relief, surgical options may be considered. These range from minimally invasive procedures like knee arthroscopy for meniscal tears or cartilage damage, to joint-preserving procedures, to total knee replacement for advanced arthritis.

Knee pain can vary widely in character and location depending on the underlying cause. It may present as a dull ache deep in the joint, a sharp, stabbing pain with certain movements, or a burning sensation around the kneecap.

The pain often worsens with weight-bearing activities, prolonged standing, or specific movements like climbing stairs or squatting. Pain location can provide clues to the cause—front-of-knee pain often relates to the patellofemoral joint, while joint line pain may indicate meniscal or cartilage issues. Our comprehensive approach addresses both the pain symptoms and the underlying cause, providing lasting relief and restoring function.

While not all causes of knee pain can be prevented, several strategies can help reduce risk and maintain knee health:

• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on the knee joint
• Regular low-impact exercise to strengthen knee stabilizers and maintain flexibility
• Proper warm-up and stretching before physical activities
• Using proper technique and equipment during sports or exercise
• Addressing muscle imbalances and movement patterns through physical therapy
• Seeking early evaluation from a knee specialist when symptoms first appear
• Managing underlying conditions like arthritis or structural abnormalities proactively

If knee pain is affecting your daily activities or quality of life, schedule a consultation with Mountain Spine & Orthopedics today. Benefit from a complimentary MRI review and expert evaluation to identify the cause of your knee pain and explore treatment options. Same-day and next-day appointments are often available.