Are you suffering from knee pain? You’re not alone. Knee injuries are one of the most common reasons why people visit their doctors.
Whether from an accident, sports injury, or aging, knee pain can affect your daily life. It can limit your mobility, making it difficult to perform simple tasks like walking or standing.
If you’re experiencing knee pain, it’s important to seek medical attention from a knee specialist. In this article, we’ll discuss how knee doctors diagnose and treat common knee injuries. Read on so you can better understand what to expect during your appointment.
Diagnosing a Knee Injury
The first step in treating any knee injury is to diagnose the problem. Doctors use a combination of techniques to make an accurate diagnosis, including:
Physical Examination
During a physical exam, the doctor will assess your knee’s range of motion, stability, and strength. They may also look for signs of swelling or inflammation. This can help them determine the severity of the injury and identify any potential underlying causes.
Imaging Tests
In some cases, doctors may order imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans. This is to get a better look at the knee’s internal structures. These tests can reveal any fractures, ligament tears, or other abnormalities that may be causing your pain.
Diagnostic Injections
In certain situations, doctors may also use diagnostic injections to pinpoint the source of knee pain. These injections involve injecting a numbing or anti-inflammatory medication into the affected area. If the injection provides temporary relief, it can confirm that the problem lies in that specific location.
Treating a Knee Injury
Once a knee injury has been diagnosed, your doctor will recommend a treatment plan based on the severity and type of injury. Some common treatments for knee injuries include:
Rest and Ice
For mild knee injuries, the doctor may recommend rest and ice to reduce swelling and pain. This involves avoiding activities that put a strain on the knee. Then apply ice for 20 minutes every few hours.
Physical Therapy
For more severe injuries, physical therapy may be necessary to strengthen the knee and improve its range of motion. A physical therapist can create a personalized exercise plan to gradually rebuild strength in your knee.
Medications
In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications to manage pain and reduce inflammation in the knee. These are typically used for short-term relief until the underlying injury is treated.
Surgery
In more serious cases, surgery may be required to repair or replace damaged structures in the knee. This can include procedures such as arthroscopic surgery, ACL reconstruction, or total knee replacement.
Your doctor will discuss the best surgical option for your specific injury. Make sure to choose a highly skilled surgeon with experience in treating knee injuries.
To help you with this, consider checking the Boise orthopedic surgeons. They have a team of experienced knee specialists who provide advanced treatments for all types of knee injuries.
Knee Doctors: Treat Knee Injuries Effectively
Knee injuries can be painful and debilitating. But with proper diagnosis and treatment, you can recover and regain your mobility.
If you’re experiencing knee pain, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention from knee doctors. With their expertise, they can diagnose your injury and recommend the best treatment plan for your recovery. Remember to follow their instructions to ensure a successful recovery.
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