Knee pain can take a heavy toll on your quality of life. You may find it difficult to sit, stand, walk, climb stairs, and more. But what exactly causes knee pain, and is there anything you can do to find relief? This blog post shares important information that may help you understand your condition and seek the appropriate care.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of knee pain. This condition develops when cartilage in your knee wears down, which can lead to stiffness, swelling, and pain that often feels worse after activity or first thing in the morning. As joint surfaces lose their smooth cushion, even simple tasks such as walking or climbing stairs may become difficult.
Overuse and Repetitive Strain
If you run, jump, kneel, or repeat the same motion often, your knees may start to hurt from repetitive strain. This type of stress can irritate tendons and other tissues around your kneecaps. You may notice pain during exercise, after a long workday, or when you put pressure on one specific part of the joint.
Acute Injuries
Acute injuries happen fast. A twist, fall, awkward landing, or direct blow can damage ligaments, cartilage, tendons, or bone in your knee. You may feel sudden pain, notice swelling, or struggle to bear weight. These injuries need prompt evaluation so you can understand the source of pain and avoid more damage.
Overweight or Obesity
Your knees carry a large share of your body weight, so extra pounds can place a lot of force on the joints. Over time, that added pressure may speed cartilage wear, increase inflammation, and make daily movement more painful. If you already have arthritis or a past injury, excess weight may make symptoms feel even more intense.
Nerve Issues
Not all knee pain starts in the knee joint itself. In some cases, a nerve problem in your lower back, hip, or leg can send pain, tingling, burning, or numbness into the knee area. If your symptoms do not match a clear joint injury, nerve irritation may play a role.
When to Seek Care from a Non-Surgical Orthopedic Doctor
If your knee pain does not improve with self-care or is severe enough to interfere with your daily life, it may be time to seek care from a non-surgical orthopedic doctor. A specialist can evaluate the root cause of your pain and discuss regenerative medicine treatments that aim to support tissue repair and improve function. Regenerative therapies, such as PRP or stem cell therapy, are designed to support your body’s natural healing processes, promote tissue repair, and result in lasting pain relief.
Knee pain can come from more than one source, so if you are struggling with this symptom, it would be wise to figure out its source and week treatment from a qualified care team.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Paul Tortland, DO, is a board-certified specialist in regenerative medicine. Along with Dr. Tad DeWald, he and our team offer a range of non-surgical treatments for musculoskeletal issues. If you are struggling with knee pain, we are ready to evaluate your case and recommend your next steps. To request an appointment, contact New England Stem Cell Institute in Glastonbury at 860-430-2821.