Knee pain can be a frustrating and debilitating condition that affects individuals of all ages and activity levels. At Summit Integrated Health, we understand knee pain’s impact on your daily life, so we offer comprehensive multidisciplinary care to help you find relief and return to your regular activities.
The Knee Anatomy
The knee is a complex joint that supports the body’s weight and facilitates movement. The knee joint is one of the most intricate joints in the human body, allowing for flexion and extension of the lower leg and slight internal and external rotation. It comprises several parts, including the femur, tibia, patella, and ligaments and tendons.
The femur is the thighbone, while the tibia is the shinbone. The patella, or kneecap, is a small bone that sits in front of the joint. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones to each other, while tendons connect muscles to bones. Knee pain can occur when any of these components don’t function optimally.
What is Knee Pain?
Knee pain can be described as a discomfort, tenderness, stiffness, or swelling in one or both knees. The severity and location of the pain can vary depending on the underlying cause. Knee pain can be caused by various factors, such as injuries, misalignment, or degenerative changes. According to a recent study, knee pain is a prevalent issue affecting around 25% of all adults and results in about 4 million visits to medical professionals annually.
Symptoms:
- Discomfort, tenderness, or pain in one or both knees
- Swelling or stiffness in the knee joint
- Limited range of motion or difficulty moving the knee
- Feeling unstable or like your knee may give out
- Grinding or popping sensations when moving the knee
- Redness or warmth around the knee joint
- Difficulty putting weight on the affected knee
- Pain that worsens when sitting for extended periods or during physical activity
- Pain that wakes you up at night or interferes with sleep
Possible Causes:
- Injuries, such as ligament tears, meniscus tears, fractures, or dislocations
- Overuse or repetitive strain injuries, such as patellar tendinitis or iliotibial band syndrome
- Arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout
- Degenerative changes, such as cartilage or bone damage
- Infections or inflammatory conditions, such as bursitis or tendinitis
- Obesity or excess weight, which can put extra pressure on the knee joint
- Age-related wear and tear and degenerative changes in the knee joint
- Mechanical problems that put excess strain on the muscles
Examples of Mechanical Problems:
- Loose bodies, which are fragments of bone or cartilage that can float in the joint
- Iliotibial band (IT band) syndrome, which occurs when the band of tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh becomes tight and inflamed, causing pain on the outside of the knee
- Dislocated kneecap (patella), which happens when the patella slides out of place
- Gait alterations in the way you walk or run can put extra stress on the knee joint
Diagnosing The Root Cause of Knee Pain
To diagnose the root cause of knee pain, our medical professionals typically begin with a physical examination and medical history review. Diagnostic imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans, can help us assess the bones, soft tissues, and cartilage in and around the knee joint.
Blood tests and joint fluid analysis may be used to identify underlying medical conditions, following which an individualized treatment plan is designed.
Personalized Treatments for Knee Pain
Summit Integrated Health offers personalized treatments for knee pain based on the underlying cause of your discomfort. Our multidisciplinary approach includes non-surgical options, such as chiropractic care, physical therapy, and regenerative medicine. Our team works together to develop a customized treatment plan to address your needs, focusing on relieving pain, improving mobility and function, and preventing future injuries.
Schedule Your Consultation
Schedule a consultation with Summit Integrated Health to determine the underlying cause of your discomfort and get the relief you need. Our team of medical professionals is dedicated to providing personalized care that addresses the root cause of your pain and promotes healing. Contact us today and take the first step toward pain relief — we see patients across the Las Vegas Metro Area and Clark County.