Your knees are complex joints that assist with walking, running, sitting, and jumping. All these activities also place a lot of stress on the knee, which makes the joint vulnerable to injury and pain. At the Wicker Park, Chicago, family medicine practice Dr. Milton Chávez MD, SC, board-certified physician Dr. Chávez offers comprehensive evaluations and treatment plans for knee pain to alleviate your discomfort. Call the office or request an appointment online to schedule your evaluation today.
Knee Pain Q & A
What causes knee pain?
Your knee pain may develop after an unexpected injury or from the general wear-and-tear that occurs over time. Common causes of knee pain include:
Arthritis
Fracture
Dislocated kneecap
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear
Bursitis
Meniscal tear
Loose body
Patellofemoral pain syndrome
Knee pain can also develop due to conditions related to your ankles or hips that redistribute body weight, causing more stress on your knee.
When should I seek medical help for my knee pain?
Knee pain can cause a range of symptoms, from a dull ache to severe pain that makes walking difficult. You should schedule an appointment with Dr. Chávez and his team if your knee pain is severe or chronic. You should also have your knee evaluated if you’re unable to bear weight on your knee or bend it.
Severe swelling and an obvious deformity require immediate care. The family medicine practice is equipped with diagnostic tools and equipment that may provide the answers you need and save you a trip to the emergency room for your knee pain.
What can I expect during evaluation for knee pain?
Dr. Chávez and his team conduct comprehensive evaluations when you come to the office with complaints of knee pain. During your evaluation, Dr. Chávez reviews your symptoms and onset of pain. They also obtain your medical history and perform a physical exam, paying close attention to the structure and function of your affected knee.
To better understand the cause of your knee pain, they may request diagnostic imaging, such as an X-ray or MRI.
What are knee pain treatments?
Treatment for your knee pain is individualized and based on the underlying cause of your pain, the severity of your symptoms, and your health. Treatment options may include:
Rest, ice, compression, and elevation
Anti-inflammatory medication
Over-the-counter pain relievers
Physical therapy
Weight loss
Dr. Chávez has surgical training and also offers procedural medicine at the office. Depending on the cause of your knee pain and your response to conservative measures, he may recommend various injections, such as steroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and other regenerative medicine options to help heal damaged or diseased tissue.
For comprehensive care of your knee pain from a full-service family medicine practice, call Dr. Milton Chávez MD, SC or request an appointment online today.