Knee Pain Treatment

Knee pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal issues, which affects people of all ages, often making it challenging for them to carry out everyday activities. Whether the pain is caused by an injury, arthritis, or age-related wear and tear; if it persists, it is important to consult a knee pain specialist. At Artemis Hospitals, we understand how knee pain can impact mobility and overall quality of life, and offer comprehensive and advanced treatments for knee pain, tailored to the patients’ unique needs. Our team comprises some of the best ortho specialists in Gurgaon, with extensive experience in diagnosing and treating all types of knee pain, helping patients regain control of their health.

When to Consult a Doctor for Knee Pain?

Even though knee pain is an indication of an underlying problem, many people avoid consulting a doctor, hoping the pain would go away on its own. Don’t make that mistake. Early detection and treatment can go a long way in preventing further damage. Here are some of the scenarios in which it’s strongly recommended to consult a knee pain doctor:

• Severe or Sudden Pain: If you experience sharp, severe pain in your knee, particularly after an injury or accident, it could indicate a ligament tear, fracture, or dislocation that requires immediate attention.
• Persistent Swelling: If your knee gets swollen and the swelling lasts more than 48 hours, it could be a sign of a serious injury or underlying condition, such as an infection, ligament tear, or fluid buildup in the joint (effusion).
• Inability to Bear Weight: If you find it difficult or impossible to put weight on your knee without pain or instability, it may suggest a ligament injury, meniscus tear, or even a fracture. You should see a doctor to prevent further damage.
• Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty in bending or straightening the knee, along with stiffness, could indicate joint damage, cartilage wear (as seen in osteoarthritis), or internal knee injuries that need medical evaluation.
• Deformity: Any noticeable deformity in the knee’s appearance, such as an unusual shape or alignment, could signal a dislocation, fracture, or severe ligament injury that requires urgent medical intervention.
• Signs of Infection: Redness, warmth, and tenderness around the knee, coupled with fever, may indicate an infection in the joint (septic arthritis) or the surrounding tissues, which is a medical emergency.
• Chronic or Worsening Pain: If knee pain persists for several weeks or worsens without a clear cause, it may be due to degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis, which requires long-term management. 
• Popping or Clicking Sounds: If you hear a popping, clicking, or grinding sound while moving your knee, particularly if accompanied by pain or instability, it could suggest cartilage damage, ligament tears, or a condition such as patellar tracking disorder.

While over-the-counter medications may provide temporary relief from pain, delaying proper treatment can lead to further damage. If you or someone you know have been experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms, schedule a consultation with one of our orthopaedists at Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon as soon as possible. 

Common Causes of Knee Pain

Injuries

• Ligament Tears (ACL/MCL): Injuries such as an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or medial collateral ligament (MCL) tear lead to immediate acute pain, swelling, and instability in the knee.
• Meniscus Tear: The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that cushions the knee joint. A sudden twist or heavy lifting can cause it to tear, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee.
• Fractures: Bones around the knee, such as the kneecap (patella), can be broken during falls, accidents, or direct trauma, causing significant pain and loss of mobility.
• Dislocations: The kneecap or the knee joint can get dislocated from its normal position, usually due to a trauma, leading to intense pain, swelling, and an inability to straighten the knee.

Arthritis

• Osteoarthritis: A common cause of knee pain, especially in older adults, osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition where the cartilage in the knee wears down over time, causing bone-on-bone friction that may lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, including the knee joint. It leads to chronic inflammation, pain, and joint damage.
• Post-Traumatic Arthritis: It is a type of arthritis that develops after an injury to the knee, causing long-term pain and swelling. It is worth noting that it can develop even years after the incident.

Overuse Conditions

• Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the knee (e.g., patellar tendonitis, or "jumper’s knee") occurs due to overuse of the knee. Athletes and those who perform repetitive movements like jumping or running are at a higher risk.
• Bursitis: The bursae are small fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between the tissues in the knee. Overuse or trauma to the knee can cause these sacs to become inflamed, leading to pain and swelling.
• Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS): ITBS occurs when the iliotibial band, a ligament running along the thigh, becomes tight or irritated, causing knee pain. Runners and cyclists are at a higher risk of developing ITBS due to their repetitive knee movement.

Mechanical Problems

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner’s Knee): This is pain in the front of the knee, around or behind the kneecap. It is usually caused by misalignment, overuse, or muscle imbalances.
• Loose Body (Loose Cartilage): Pieces of bone or cartilage can break off and float inside the knee joint, causing pain, swelling, and locking of the knee.
• Knee Misalignment: Abnormal alignment of the knee joint or legs can put excess pressure on the knee, causing pain and discomfort, especially during movement.

Infections or Inflammatory Conditions

• Septic Arthritis: This is a serious condition caused by an infection in the knee joint. It leads to severe pain, swelling, and redness, and requires immediate medical attention.
• Gout: A form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, gout can cause sudden, severe attacks of pain, often in the knee. The joint may become red, swollen, and warm to the touch.
• Pseudogout: Similar to gout but caused by calcium crystal deposits, pseudogout can also lead to knee pain and inflammation.

Knee Pain by Location and their Causes

Pain Above the Knee

Common Causes:

• Quadriceps Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendon connecting the quadriceps muscles to the knee, usually due to overuse or strain.
• Quadriceps Muscle Strain: A tear or strain in the quadriceps muscles above the knee, often caused by sudden movements or excessive physical activity.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs) around the knee, particularly above the kneecap.

Pain in the Kneecap (Patellar Pain)

Common Causes:

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner’s Knee): Pain around or behind the kneecap caused by overuse, misalignment, or weakened muscles.
• Chondromalacia Patella: Softening and breakdown of the cartilage under the kneecap, leading to pain and discomfort during movement.
• Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee): Inflammation of the patellar tendon, typically from repetitive jumping or running.

Inner Knee Pain (Medial)

Common Causes:

• Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injury: A sprain or tear of the MCL, often caused by direct impact or twisting motions.
• Medial Meniscus Tear: Damage to the cartilage on the inner side of the knee, often from sudden twisting or overuse.
• Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear on the cartilage inside the knee joint, commonly affecting the inner side of the knee.

Outer Knee Pain (Lateral)

Common Causes:

• Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS): Tightness or irritation of the iliotibial band, which runs along the outer thigh and can cause pain on the outside of the knee, especially in runners.
• Lateral Meniscus Tear: Damage to the cartilage on the outer side of the knee, usually from twisting movements.
• Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Injury: A sprain or tear of the LCL, often caused by trauma or direct impact to the outside of the knee.

Pain Below the Knee

Common Causes:

• Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee): Inflammation of the patellar tendon that connects the kneecap to the shinbone, common in athletes.
• Osgood-Schlatter Disease: Inflammation of the area just below the knee where the tendon attaches to the shinbone, common in adolescents due to growth spurts.
• Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae below the knee, often from repetitive motion or pressure on the knee joint.

Diagnosis of Knee Pain at Artemis Hospitals

At Artemis Hospitals, we understand that accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. By combining physical assessments, advanced imaging, and laboratory tests, we are able to identify the root cause of knee pain and create a personalised treatment plan. 

The diagnostic process for knee pain at Artemis Hospitals include (but may not be limited to):

Physical Examination

The first step in diagnosing knee pain is a detailed physical examination by our experienced specialists, who assess the knee’s range of motion, look for any signs of swelling, tenderness, or warmth, and evaluate joint stability and flexibility. 

Imaging Tests

Imaging is often essential for a more in-depth understanding of the problem. At Artemis Hospitals, we use:

• X-ray: To identify and assess fractures, bone damage, deformities or degenerative joint diseases such as osteoarthritis.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): To get images of the soft tissues such as ligaments, tendons, meniscus, and cartilage, which are often involved in knee pain.
• CT Scan: To get cross-sectional images to detect more subtle issues such as complex fractures or the alignment of bones in the knee joint. 
• Ultrasound: To get real-time images of tendons, ligaments, and muscles, allowing us to detect inflammation, tears, or fluid build-up around the knee joint. 

Laboratory Tests

If we suspect that an underlying infection, inflammation, or metabolic disorder is contributing to knee pain, we may conduct laboratory tests. These tests include but may not be limited to:

• Blood Tests: Used to identify markers of inflammation, such as elevated white blood cell counts, C-reactive protein (CRP), or erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). These can indicate conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or septic arthritis.
• Joint Fluid Analysis (Arthrocentesis): A sample of fluid is drawn from the knee joint and examined for signs of infection, inflammation, or the presence of crystals (like in gout or pseudogout). This test helps diagnose conditions such as septic arthritis or gouty arthritis, where excess uric acid or bacterial infection may be causing knee pain.

In addition to blood tests and joint fluid analysis, there are a few more laboratory tests that can be used to diagnose the underlying causes of knee pain. The include:

• Rheumatoid Factor (RF) and Anti-CCP Tests: Used to detect rheumatoid arthritis. The presence of rheumatoid factor (RF) or anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies indicates an autoimmune response attacking the joint tissues, which could be causing knee pain.
• Uric Acid Test: Used to measure the level of uric acid in the body. Elevated levels suggest gout, which can cause painful swelling in the knee due to crystal deposits in the joint.
• Antinuclear Antibody (ANA) Test: Used to detect autoimmune disorders like lupus, which can cause inflammation and pain in the joints, including the knees.
• HLA-B27 Test: used to detect the presence of the HLA-B27 gene that is associated with ankylosing spondylitis and other inflammatory conditions that affect the joints.

These additional tests help rule out or confirm autoimmune and metabolic causes of knee pain, providing a more complete understanding of the patient's condition.

Gait Analysis and Biomechanical Testing

In some cases, knee pain may be related to abnormal movement patterns or biomechanical issues. Our specialists may observe how a patient walks (gait analysis) to detect problems with alignment, muscle imbalances, or abnormal pressure distribution on the knee joint. This can be particularly helpful for diagnosing issues such as patellofemoral pain syndrome or iliotibial band syndrome.

Specialised Tests for Specific Conditions

For conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, we might conduct specific tests to assess joint wear and tear, inflammation levels, and cartilage degradation. These tests help us tailor personalised treatments for chronic conditions.

Treatments Options for Knee Pain at Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon

The team of ortho specialists at Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon, offers a comprehensive range of treatments for knee pain, providing both non-surgical and surgical options to alleviate pain and restore function. 

Here’s an overview of the treatment options available at Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon:

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Physical Therapy: Customised exercise programs designed to strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and restore range of motion. This is often the first line of treatment for conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, or minor injuries.
• Medications:
• Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): To reduce pain and inflammation, commonly used for arthritis or soft tissue injuries.
• Corticosteroid Injections: To provide fast relief from inflammation, particularly in cases of arthritis or bursitis.
• Hyaluronic Acid Injections: To lubricate the knee joint, improving movement and reducing pain in patients with osteoarthritis.
• Bracing and Supports: Knee braces or orthotics to help stabilise the joint, reduce stress on the knee, and provide support during the recovery period.
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: A regenerative therapy that uses a patient’s own blood plasma to promote healing in damaged tissues. Often used for treating tendonitis and early-stage arthritis.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Advice on weight management and activity modification to reduce stress on the knee joint, especially for those with osteoarthritis or chronic knee pain.

Minimally Invasive Procedures

In case the first line of treatment doesn’t provide complete relief, our orthopaedic specialists may consider a number of minimally invasive procedures, offering reduced recovery times, minimal scarring, and lower risk of complications. These include:

• Arthroscopy: A keyhole surgery wherein a small camera is inserted into the knee to diagnose and treat issues such as torn ligaments, meniscus tears, and cartilage damage. 
• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): A procedure that uses heat to target and disrupt nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals, offering long-term relief from chronic pain.
• Minimally Invasive Knee Replacement: A less invasive version of traditional knee replacement surgery, using smaller incisions, leading to reduced recovery time.
• Meniscus Repair: Arthroscopic techniques to repair or remove damaged meniscus tissue, promoting faster recovery with minimal tissue disruption.
• Cartilage Restoration:
• Microfracture surgery: Stimulates cartilage growth by creating small holes in the bone, allowing new cartilage to form.
• Osteochondral Autografts: Transplanting healthy cartilage from one part of the knee to repair damaged areas.
• Cartilage Transplants: In some cases, healthy cartilage may be transplanted to restore damaged areas.
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: A regenerative treatment where a patient’s blood plasma, rich in healing factors, is injected into the knee to promote tissue repair and reduce pain.
• Hyaluronic Acid Injections: Injections of hyaluronic acid to lubricate the knee joint, reducing pain and improving movement in patients with osteoarthritis.
• Stem Cell Therapy: A regenerative technique where stem cells are injected into the knee to help regenerate damaged cartilage and promote healing.
• Percutaneous Needle Tenotomy: A minimally invasive procedure that involves using a needle to break up scar tissue or damaged tendons in the knee, stimulating healing.

Surgical Treatments

If the issue is beyond the scope of medications, therapies and minimally invasive procedures, our orthopaedic surgeons are equipped to carry out all types of open orthopaedic surgeries, including but not limited to:

• Partial Knee Replacement : This surgery replaces only the damaged part of the knee, preserving as much of the natural knee joint as possible. It is often an option for patients with localised osteoarthritis.
• Total Knee Replacement: In cases of severe joint degeneration or damage from arthritis, the entire knee joint is replaced with an artificial implant. This surgery is quite effective in restoring mobility and relieving chronic pain.
• ACL Reconstruction: For patients with a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), surgery involves reconstructing the ligament using a graft from the patient's own tissue or a donor. This procedure helps restore stability and function to the knee.
• Cartilage Repair and Regeneration: Techniques such as microfracture surgery, osteochondral autografts, or cartilage transplant are used to repair damaged cartilage in the knee, particularly in younger patients with localised cartilage defects.

Rehabilitation and Post-Operative Care

At Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon, we know that rehabilitation and post-operative care are crucial to optimal recovery of patients undergoing knee treatments or surgery. That’s why we offer comprehensive rehabilitation programs designed to promote healing, restore mobility, and improve overall function. These programs may include:

• Physical Therapy: Customised exercises to strengthen knee muscles, improve flexibility, and restore range of motion. Gait training is also offered to help patients walk naturally post-surgery or injury.
• Pain Management: This includes medications, ice application, and elevation techniques to reduce swelling and pain. In some cases, nerve blocks are provided for more effective pain relief.
• Mobility Aids: Patients may use crutches, walkers, or braces to support movement and protect the knee during the initial recovery phase.
• Progressive Weight Bearing: A gradual transition from non-weight-bearing to full weight-bearing activities, guided by physical therapists, to ensure safe recovery.
• Lifestyle and Activity Modifications: Patients receive guidance on how to adjust daily activities and physical routines to prevent strain on the knee and avoid reinjury.
• Nutritional Support: Dieticians may recommend dietary adjustments and supplements to promote tissue healing and joint health during recovery.
• Patient Education: Detailed post-operative care instructions are provided, including wound care, exercises, and precautions for a successful recovery at home.
• Follow-up Care: Regular check-ins with surgeons and therapists help monitor progress, adjust treatment plans, and address any concerns throughout the recovery process.

Looking for a Knee Pain Specialist? Book a Consultation Today

If you or someone you know has been dealing with knee pain, it’s time to take the first step towards a pain-free life. The team of orthopaedic specialists at Artemis Hospitals is here to provide comprehensive, compassionate care, starting from accurate diagnosis to personalised treatment and rehabilitation. To book a consultation with one of our knee pain specialists, you can call our centralised customer care number: +91-124-4511111, WhatsApp us at: +91-95992-85476, or register on our Online Patient Portal. Alternatively, you can download and register on our Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.