Knee Pain
Whether it’s a dull ache that won’t go away or a sharp pain that stops you in your tracks, knee pain can affect your ability to move, work, and enjoy your favorite activities. Because the knee is one of the most complex joints in the body, and one of the most used, knee pain is a common complaint for people of all ages.
At Iowa Ortho, our orthopedic knee specialists work to identify the exact cause of your knee pain and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you move comfortably again.
What Does Knee Pain Feel Like?
Knee pain can vary based on its cause, severity, and location. You might feel:
- A deep ache behind the kneecap
- Sharp, stabbing pain on the inner or outer side
- Swelling or stiffness after activity
- Popping, grinding, or catching sensations
- Instability or the feeling that your knee might “give out”
The nature of your pain provides helpful clues about its underlying cause.
Common Causes of Knee Pain
There are many possible sources of knee pain ranging from acute injuries to chronic wear and tear. Common conditions include:
Injury-Related
- Ligament injuries (ACL, MCL, PCL, LCL tears or sprains)
- Meniscus tears
- Patellar dislocation or instability
- Tendon injuries (patellar or quadriceps tendinitis)
- Fractures around the knee
Overuse or Chronic Conditions
- Knee arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis)
- Bursitis
- Iliotibial (IT) band syndrome
- Chondromalacia patella (runner’s knee)
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome
- Osgood-Schlatter disease (in adolescents)
Knee pain can also result from referred pain due to hip, back, or foot issues.
When to See a Specialist
Occasional knee pain from overuse or activity may improve with rest. However, you should see a doctor if you experience:
- Pain lasting more than a week
- Swelling that doesn’t improve
- Inability to fully straighten or bend the knee
- Instability or weakness
- Visible deformity after injury
- Difficulty walking or bearing weight
Early evaluation can lead to quicker relief and may help prevent more serious problems.
How Is Knee Pain Diagnosed?
At Iowa Ortho, your provider will perform a detailed evaluation to pinpoint the source of your pain. This typically includes:
- Physical exam to assess strength, range of motion, and joint stability
- X-rays to evaluate bones and joint alignment
- MRI to examine soft tissues like ligaments, meniscus, and cartilage
- Ultrasound for dynamic imaging of tendons and fluid
- Diagnostic injections to isolate the pain source
Treatment Options
Most cases of knee pain can be treated without surgery. At Iowa Ortho, we prioritize conservative care when appropriate and only recommend surgery when it’s truly necessary.
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve alignment
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
- Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections
- Activity modification and bracing
- Ice, compression, and elevation for injury-related swelling
- Orthotics or footwear adjustments
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be considered for severe injuries or chronic conditions that don’t respond to conservative treatment. Surgical options include:
- Arthroscopy to repair or remove damaged tissue (e.g., meniscus, cartilage)
- Ligament reconstruction (e.g., ACL reconstruction)
- Knee realignment procedures (osteotomy)
- Partial or total knee replacement for advanced arthritis
Our surgeons offer the latest techniques, including minimally invasive and robotic-assisted procedures, for faster recovery and improved outcomes.
Trust the Knee Experts at Iowa Ortho
Whether your knee pain is the result of a sports injury, overuse, or arthritis, Iowa Ortho has the expertise and resources to help. Our team includes fellowship-trained knee specialists and experienced physical therapists, all working together to get you back to what you love.