The effects of knee pain can sometimes go beyond just being an inconvenience. It can make it hard to do things you love, like playing sports, hiking, or even walking your dog. Everyday things like getting up from a chair can also become difficult and painful. Knee pain can also affect your mood, making you feel frustrated or sad. Finding the right treatment for knee pain relief can make a big difference in how you feel and what you can do each day.
Causes of Knee Pain
Knee pain can happen for many reasons. Some knee pain causes include:
Injuries
Falls, sprains, or sports accidents can hurt your knee. These injuries can damage ligaments, tendons, or cartilage, leading to pain for weeks or even months.
Arthritis
This is when the joints become swollen and painful. Arthritis takes on different forms, but the most prominent are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Both can cause knee pain by wearing down the joint over time.
Overuse
Doing too much activity without rest can lead to pain and injury. Activities like running, jumping, or lifting heavy objects can strain the knee, causing pain and inflammation.
Innovative Treatment Options for Knee Pain
Some innovative therapies for knee pain relief are:
1. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy harnesses the healing properties of your own blood to promote knee recovery. Doctors take a small amount of blood and spin it in a machine to separate the platelets. These platelets are then injected into your knee to promote healing.
The idea is that the platelets release growth factors that help repair damaged tissues. PRP therapy is being used more often because it uses natural substances from your own body. Because it is your blood, the risk of side effects becomes lower.
2. Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell therapy involves using cells that can turn into other types of cells in your body. These cells are injected into your knee to help repair damaged tissue.
Stem cells can help regenerate cartilage and reduce inflammation. This treatment is still being studied, but it shows promise for reducing pain and improving function.
Many people find that their knee pain decreases, and they can move more easily after stem cell therapy.
3. Hyaluronic Acid Injections
Hyaluronic acid is a substance that is naturally in your joints. Injections of this substance can help lubricate your knee, making it easier to move without pain.
This treatment is often used for people with osteoarthritis. The injections can cushion the joint and reduce friction, providing relief for several months.
Many people find that hyaluronic acid injections help them stay active. They also observe that it reduces their reliance on pain medications.
4. Physical Therapy
Physical therapy involves exercises and treatments designed to improve knee strength and flexibility.
A physical therapist can create a plan tailored to your needs, helping reduce pain and prevent future injuries. Physical therapy can include:
- exercises to improve your knee strength
- stretching to improve flexibility
- techniques to improve your balance and coordination
Regular physical therapy sessions can help you build a stronger, more stable knee. Physical therapy makes it easier to perform daily activities without pain.
5. Advanced Bracing
New types of knee braces can provide support and reduce pain without limiting movement. These braces are designed to fit comfortably. You can wear them during daily activities.
Advanced braces can help align your knee correctly. This reduces stress on the joint and prevents further injury. Some braces use materials that conform to your knee shape, providing personalized support.
Wearing a brace can help you stay active while protecting your knee and managing pain.
Choosing the Best Knee Pain Relief Treatment
Finding the best knee pain relief treatment depends on your needs. Make sure to talk to your doctor. They can diagnose the cause of your pain and suggest the best treatments.
Before making a decision, consider how you live. Are you active and enjoy a lot of physical hobbies? Some treatments work better for on-the-go lifestyles. Knowing your options is key. Take some time to learn about the different approaches available to you.
Always weigh risks and benefits. Risks and benefits vary per treatment option. Discuss them with your doctor to ensure you are well-informed.
Don’t forget to check your insurance. See what treatments your insurance covers and consider costs. Finally, ask your doctor about success rates. Find out how effective each treatment is for others with similar pain.
By following these steps, you can choose the best treatment to relieve your knee pain.
Comprehensive Knee Pain Relief in Ft. Lauderdale, FL
If you are having knee pain that is not getting better at-home measures, visit our orthopedic doctor here at Paul Meli Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Paul Meli has years of experience in treating a full range of knee problems and conditions with surgical and nonsurgical methods to provide knee pain relief.
If you would like to schedule a consultation with our orthopedic doctor, call us today at (954) 324-7711 or fill out our appointment request form.
Let Dr. Meli be your trusted healthcare partner in caring for your knees. We look forward to serving you!
