Knee pain can be debilitating at its worst and an annoyance at its best. If you play sports or are over 45 then you have probably experienced some knee pain in your life. But when should you be concerned about knee pain? What are the warning signs for care?
There are over 100 different kinds of arthritis but the most common arthritis is Osteoarthritis involving the larger weight bearing joints of the body such as the knee. This is a destruction or wear and tear of the cartilage in the knee and appears gradually over time. Pain is the number one cause for a doctor’s visit involving the knee Certain supplements helped with this kind of pain and can also offer protective properties. Proper exercise and ideal body weight also keep the knees healthy.
PAIN THAT LASTS MORE THAN 48 HOURS
Pain that comes on suddenly from an event such as hiking or a fall could indicate a knee condition such as a sprain/strain or damage to the inside of the knee joint. Pain with weight bearing or pain that starts when walking up and down stairs could be a torn ligament a torn meniscus or related to swelling which is the next warning sign.
SWELLING THAT LASTS MORE THAN 48 HOURS
Swelling behind the knee is the most common site. Swelling can also appear on the sides of the knee (lateral collateral or medial collateral ligaments) or above and below the kneecap. Swelling can be a sign of a torn ligament or inflammation of the bursae which are small sacs of fluid outside the knee that cushion muscle and ligaments movements. Swelling can also be a sign of infection or Gout, especially if red, hot or accompanied by fever.
INSTABILITY OR A FEELING OF KNEE JOINT LOCKING
Knee joint locking or knee buckling can indicate a serious internal joint injury such as torn ligaments / meniscus / or a neurologic problem. Again possible injuries include tearing of the meniscus / anterior cruciate or posterior cruciate ligament.
WHEN TO SEE A SPECIALIST
If you have mild pain or swelling that is not limiting your movement or preventing you from weight bearing; then 3-5 days of rest and ice and elevation usually helps. But if you experience any of the 3 warning signs then you should seek treatment immediately. At Total Health chiropractic I offer a New Patient examination and treatment with therapy such as Cold Laser, Ultrasound, and exercises for complete recovery. Request our New Patient eBook (eBook includes basic knee exercises) for an appointment and discounted examination.
If you experience any of these 3 Warning signs then see your chiropractor or primary care doctor today.
Thank you for trusting me with your health,
Curtis Haake D.C.
Health Coach
