Condition: Knee Pain

Knee pain is a common problem that affects people of all ages. It’s most often associated with general wear and tear but can also be a result of an injury, such as torn cartilage or a ruptured ligament, or a medical condition such as arthritis or gout.

In most cases, knee pain will resolve itself with at-home treatments within a few days or weeks, but it can be a longer-term issue and require specialist treatment.

Knee pain can range from a niggling ache to sharp pain that restricts your movement and ability to walk. You may also notice some swelling, redness or heat in the area surrounding the joint.

In some cases, the knee may make a popping or grinding sound with movement, you may not be able to fully straighten your leg, and your knee may give way or feel unstable when standing up or walking.

It’s important to see a specialist if your pain is very severe, is not improving, has lasted more than a couple of weeks, has significant swelling or deformity, and/or if you’re unable to weight bear or fully extend or bend your knee.

Factors that may cause or contribute to knee pain include:

• Sprains and strains

• Patellar tendinitis

• A torn ligament, tendon or meniscus

• Cartilage damage

• Dislocated knee cap

• Osteoarthritis

• Rheumatoid arthritis

• Bursitis

• Gout

• Patellofemoral pain (runner’s knee)

Our specialist consultants at OneWelbeck, can make a diagnosis of knee pain and identify the cause at a consultation by asking you questions about your symptoms such as when you feel most pain and when the pain started, performing a physical examination and running some tests.

Tests that may be arranged for you include blood tests, imaging scans such as X-rays, MRI or CT scans, or a minimally invasive procedure called an arthroscopy.

Once your consultant has identified the root cause of your knee pain, they will recommend the most appropriate next steps and will arrange treatment to ensure you make the best possible recovery.

Treatment options for knee pain include medications such as pain relief and anti-inflammatories, physical therapy, injections, and surgery.