Did you recently get into an accident or injury that left you with knee pain? Are you experiencing creaks and pops in your knees when you run, climb stairs, or kneel? Do you wake up every morning with a stiff or sore knee? All of these signs point to knee disease or injury. Today, we will talk about the types of knee pain and when to see a knee doctor.
Types of Knee Pain
If you are considering when to see a knee doctor, you should consider the type of knee pain you are experiencing. Here is a list of the most common knee pains.
Crunching Knee Pain
If you occasionally hear your knee creak, crunch, or crack during a movement, that is called “crepitus.” Crepitus does not signify a problem; however, if you feel pain combined with crepitus, you may have a knee injury.
Popping Knee Pain
Did you feel or hear a loud pop inside your knee and then suddenly feel extreme pain? If so, you may have just torn your ACL.
Morning Knee Pain
If you wake up in the morning to a painful and stiff knee, you may have rheumatoid arthritis or other similar disorders.
Running Knee Pain
“Runner’s knee” is when you feel a dull pain in and around your kneecap when doing physical activities, such as running. You may also have a tender kneecap, pain from sitting for an extended period of time with your knees bent, or hearing a running, clicking, or grinding sound when moving your knee.
Climbing Knee Pain
Does your knee feel achy when climbing the stairs? Does it get worse throughout the day? These are the symptoms of osteoarthritis. You can also feel an occasional sharp pain or burning as well as swelling, stiffness, grinding, or the feeling that your knee might give out.
Kneeling Knee Pain
Do you have to kneel or bend your knees consistently for your job? If you are feeling knee pain when you kneel, you may have bursitis.
When to See A Knee Doctor?
Are you wondering when to see a knee doctor? The types of knee pain above can come on gradually or suddenly, depending on the type of damage in the knee. If you have recently been in an accident, sustained an injury to your knee, or have any of the following symptoms, you should call your doctor right away.
- Have severe knee pain
- Are unable to extend or flex your knee fully
- Cannot bear weight on the knee or if your knee feels unstable
- Have a fever with redness, pain, and swelling in the knee
- Can visible see an injury or deformity
Why See an Orthopaedic Surgeon for Knee Pain?
Orthopaedic surgeons specialize in disease and injury treatments in bones, joints, and other body structures. These highly trained surgeons will be able to evaluate your situation properly and design a carefully structured treatment plan to help you achieve a pain-free life as quickly as possible. At Lake Pointe Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, our team is ready to help you with all your knee-related issues. Give us a call today to book an appointment.