Knee Pain

What causes knee pain?

The knee is a hinge joint connecting the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone). It’s a weight-bearing joint that enables flexion and extension, allowing for the bending and straightening of the leg. Crucial for activities like standing, walking, jumping, and running, the knee is susceptible to many painful conditions and injuries, including:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the gradual breakdown of cartilage within the joint, leading to friction and discomfort during movement.

Osteochondritis dissecans

This condition occurs when the cartilage that protects the knee separates from the underlying bone, causing irritation and inflammation.

Ligament injuries

Ligament injuries, like anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, compromise the joint’s stability and cause inflammation.

Patellar instability

Knee pain can develop when the kneecap partially or fully dislocates from the knee, causing it to shift out of place.

Patellofemoral pain

Imbalances in muscle strength can cause pain behind the kneecap, or patellofemoral pain, during activities like running or climbing stairs.

Patellar tendonitis

When the tendons that support the kneecap become inflamed, activities like jumping and running can be painful.

Extensor tendon injuries

Extensor tendon injuries affect the tissues that support the knee joint, leading to pain and limited mobility.

Avascular necrosis

Avascular necrosis is a type of tissue death that can occur when the knee loses its blood supply.

Arthrofibrosis

Arthrofibrosis, when scar tissue forms within the knee joint, restricts movement and causes pain.

Exertional compartment syndrome

Exertional compartment syndrome causes knee pain due to increased pressure within the muscle compartments during physical activity, leading to discomfort and reduced blood flow.

How is knee pain diagnosed?

Dr. Hamzavi uses a comprehensive range of diagnostic tools to uncover the cause of your knee pain. After reviewing your medical history and performing a physical exam, he may conduct a gait and muscle strength analysis. Finally, Dr. Hamzavi orders X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and/or computed tomography (CT) scans to diagnose knee pain.

What are the most effective treatments for knee pain?

Hammer Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine specializes in many knee pain treatments, including:

• Cartilage restoration
• Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction
• Meniscectomy
• Meniscus repair
• Revision surgery
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
• Stem cells
• Corticosteroid injections
• Bone marrow aspirate concentrate
• Orthobiologics

Dr. Hamzavi develops a personalized treatment plan to target knee pain. Call Hammer Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine today or use the online booking tool to schedule an appointment.