Knee pain is one of the most common ailments. It can appear after a sports injury, as a result of natural wear and tear from age, or sometimes for no apparent reason. If you live in Panama and knee pain is affecting your quality of life, this guide is for you.
Here we will explain the most frequent causes, the warning signs that you should not ignore, and how an orthopedist can give you the correct diagnosis and treatment.
Not all knee pains are the same
Understanding the possible cause of your pain is the first step. Generally, discomfort originates for three main reasons:
Acute Injuries: Common in active people and athletes. A bad twist, a fall, or a direct impact can cause meniscus injuries, ligament tears (such as the famous anterior cruciate ligament), or fractures.
Wear and Tear and Chronic Conditions: Over time, the cartilage in the knee can wear down, leading to osteoarthritis. This is the most common cause of pain in older adults, causing stiffness, inflammation, and difficulty moving.
Overload Conditions: Repetitive movements at work or in certain activities (such as running on hard surfaces) can inflame the tendons (tendinitis) or bursae (bursitis), causing persistent pain.
Warning Signs: When should I see an orthopedist?
Mild pain may disappear with rest, but there are symptoms that indicate the need for a professional evaluation. Do not ignore these signs:
Inflammation and redness visible in the joint.
Inability to bear weight on the affected leg.
Popping or “clicking” sounds when moving the knee, accompanied by pain.
Sensation of locking or instability, as if the knee “is going to give out.”
Pain that does not improve after several days of rest and ice.
Obvious deformity in the joint.
Modern Treatment Options for Knee Pain
The good news is that multiple treatments exist. An orthopedist will determine the best one for you, always starting with the least invasive options.
Conservative Treatments: Include physical therapy to strengthen the muscles that support the knee, anti-inflammatory medications, and procedures such as injections, which can relieve pain and inflammation directly in the joint.
Surgical Treatments: When the damage is severe, surgery may be the solution. Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive technique that allows the surgeon to repair menisci or ligaments through small incisions, ensuring a much faster recovery.
An Accurate Diagnosis is Key
To decide on the correct treatment, an accurate diagnosis is needed first. At Hospital Brisas, we have a
Our specialists in Orthopedics and Traumatology are experts in evaluating and treating all types of knee conditions, from sports injuries to degenerative conditions.
Do not let knee pain limit your life. Our team of orthopedists at Hospital Brisas can offer you an accurate diagnosis and the treatment you need.
