Knee Pain

Knee pain can be pin pointed to a specific area of the knee or can be diffuses throughout the knee. The knee is a weight-bearing, hinge joint and is supported by ligaments on each side which cross over the knee cap. Its design is less stable than a ball-and-socket joint, which makes it more prone to injury. Some of the symptoms of knee injury can include, swelling, stiffness, and pain.

The knee is the largest joint in the body. The bones of the knee are partitions by two menisci discs.Movements at the knee joint are essential to most everyday activities such as walking, running, sitting and standing. Treatment for knee problems can include first aid measures, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

The knee is a very complex joint in the body. Tendons connect the knee bones to the leg muscles. Ligaments connect the knee bones and they provide stability to the knee.

Ligaments in the knee:

  • Anterior cruciate ligament
  • Posterior cruciate ligament
  • Medial collateral ligaments
  • Lateral collateral ligaments

Some of the most common causes of knee pain are, Chondromalacia patella which is an irritation to cartilage. Knee osteoarthritis, which is a common form of arthritis. Knee effusion, which is a condition where fluid builds up in the knee. Meniscal tear, which is caused by damage to the meniscus. ACL or anterior cruciate ligament tear which leads to the knee giving out and often requires surgery to fix.

Conditions Associated with Knee Pain

  • Cancer Pain
  • Osteoporosis
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
  • Tendinitis and Bursitis
  • Sciaticia

Common Treatments for Knee Pain

  • Epidural Nerve Block
  • Intra-Articular Joint Injections
  • Medication Management
  • Rehabilitation

Knee Pain FAQs

Treatments will differ based on what is causing your knee discomfort.

Your doctor may prescribe pain relievers and drugs to treat the illnesses causing your knee discomforts, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout. In extreme cases, they may also recommend surgical treatments such as Epidural Nerve Block, Medication Management, Rehabilitation, therapies, and joint injections.

Knee discomfort that develops gradually or as a result of more vigorous activities can be treated at home. However, your hip pain is significant if you have any of the following symptoms:

  • Significant swelling
  • Redness
  • Significant soreness
  • Fever
  • A joint that looks to be twisted
  • A popping sound when your knee was hurt
  • Inability to bear bodyweight
  • Swelling that occurs suddenly

If your knee problem worsens to the point that it interferes with your normal activities or sleep, you should immediately see a doctor.

The most common causes of knee pain are:

  • Sports injuries.
  • Chronic joint wear and tear.
  • Daily overuse from repetitive motion.

Many factors can cause knee pain, but the most common is torn ligaments. The four ligaments that connect the knee joint bones are susceptible to damage. Anterior cruciate ligament rupture (ACL) is one of the most common sports injuries. If the ACL is torn, the knee becomes unstable. Physical therapy or surgical repair may be required depending on the extent of the rupture.

Suppose you experience sharp knee pain when you bend it. In that case, the most common causes are a torn ligament or meniscus, a bone fracture in the knee joint, osteoarthritis, or patellar tendonitis. Your doctor will ask you to describe in detail the exact location of your knee and the type of pain. This will help your doctor determine the exact cause of your knee pain.

Post-run muscle soreness is common whether you're an experienced runner or a beginner. However, if your knees feel uncomfortable after running, you may have a more serious problem. If the pain is severe or your knee is swollen and doesn't go away after a week, see your doctor or physiotherapist immediately. They may also suggest stretches or exercises to help you recover.

Knee ailments have many causes and can affect people of all ages. The following are the five symptoms of a knee injury:

  1. Knee stiffness
  2. Reduced mobility of the knee and tenderness
  3. Pain that extends from the knee to the leg, hip, and foot
  4. Knee inflammation
  5. Popping sound in the knee

Fractures: An impactful trauma causes fractures around the knee to the area, such as falls from height or car accidents.

Dislocation: A dislocation occurs when the knee bones are dislocated in whole or part.

Tear in the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL): This is common in sports such as football, soccer, and basketball. The ACL can be torn if you change direction quickly or land poorly following a jump.

The common knee pain symptoms include:

  • Knee swelling, warmth, or redness
  • A tightness or buckling sensation in your knee
  • A burning feeling in your knee
  • Muscle spasms around the knee regularly
  • Calf, hip, shin, ankle, or thigh pain
  • Inability to completely extend your leg due to weakness

If you have persistent knee pain or if it interferes with your everyday activities, see an orthopedic doctor immediately.

Patient Testimonials

  • The care they give is amazing. The front desk gals are so friendly and helpful assisting with anything I've asked. My PA Nathan is very knowledgeable, personable and has been amazing in assisting me with my pain issue's along with other problems. I would and do recommend them to my friends and family.

    SanDee Rhett Avatar SanDee Rhett
    February 16, 2024

    I've been very impressed with the care Emily and her MA Laicy has given me. From the beginning Emily has done everything that she can to see that I go in the right direction for the pain that I've been in. I'm so grateful for my knee injections. I'm starting to feel like a normal person. I will continue recommending Spine Team.

    Kathleen Hartshorn Avatar Kathleen Hartshorn
    November 19, 2023

    Always helpful and great to see. Once again they came through for me with amazing help! I couldn't leave another 5 star review so I would like to add and just let everyone know how amazing Emily M. and Melissa F. are! The reception are always so friendly and helpful, everyone I've had contact with have always been incredible and positive and make every visit great! I referring to the North side location, as I've never been to the other one, they know how to hire the right people!

    Brandon K Avatar Brandon K
    January 19, 2024
  • I recently had a visit and hip injection by Dr. Sneddon. He is brilliant. Very nice man who figured out a problem I didn't even know I had. Would recommend to anyone. The team is also very pleasant and professional.

    Becky Leighton Avatar Becky Leighton
    February 5, 2024

    Kellie is a knowledgeable and effective therapist for physical pain. She not only diminishes alot of the pain at the visit but she has so much information on any specific part of my body that we are working on at the time that I get educated which helps me understand. She is a positive person. She has an upbeat and outgoing personality. I always look forward to seeing her. She is definitely a bright spot in my day! And...my pain is always better the day she treats me. Win -win.

    Jillybean Avatar Jillybean
    November 19, 2023

    I want to comment on my visits to see Emily and Laicy at the north office; they are so professional and caring! I feel so comfortable with talking to them about the issues I may have at the time and know that when I leave my appointment that we have gone over everything with answers. It is a great feeling that when you walk in the receptionist are so kind and easy going and to go to your appointment and you have the most upbeat and professional healthcare; it just makes your day!

    Brenda B Kastelein Avatar Brenda B Kastelein
    November 19, 2023
  • I have have been going to Spine Team for 2 1/2 years. I cannot say enough good things about Emily and Laicy. They know me know my case and are so helpful with anything I need. Even though I have moved farther south in Idaho I will still continue to keep my care with them Thank you

    Candi Rosco Avatar Candi Rosco
    November 19, 2023

    I have been a patient with Spine Team for about the last two years and have to say they are number one! Dr. Emily has been a great listener and really pays special attention to my needs also the other team members Angel and Laicy do a fine job of keeping my appointments on time and checking me in. Life is a journey and not a destination and with the help Spine Team North my quality of life has improved greatly.

    ryan kunz Avatar ryan kunz
    December 19, 2023

    Emily and Laicy @ Spokane Spine Team are great!! All the staff are wonderful! I love working with Emily. She is such a caring and compassionate Doctor and is always trying to find ways to get rid of my pain or make it more manageable. And great big THANK YOU to everyone, especially Emily, at Spokane Spine Team, for all that you do for everyone!! 😊❤️

    MARGIEANN PENNINGTON Avatar MARGIEANN PENNINGTON
    November 19, 2023