Many people experience knee pain as they get older, in part due to a degenerative condition known as osteoarthritis. There are many different causes of knee pain; some may be temporary while others may require a doctor’s attention. If this is your first time visiting an orthopedic specialist, you may be wondering: What will an orthopedic doctor do for knee pain?
Ultrasound-guided Cortisone Injections
Cortisone injections are used to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. These injections can be a quick and effective treatment to help patients return to normal activities faster. These injections are performed with the aid of an ultrasound to ensure proper needle placement. While cortisone injections will not resolve the underlying cause of the injury, they will provide relief to the site and make everyday activities less painful.
Viscosupplementation
Viscosupplementation is another type of injection to treat knee pain. In this procedure, hyaluronic acid is injected into affected joints to provide lubrication to the joint in cases of osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis affecting the knee. In a 2021 comprehensive review, Viscosupplementation was found to effectively reduce pain, increase functionality, and delay knee surgery in osteoarthritis treatments.
Stem Cell and PRP Therapy
Orthopedic doctors may also use stem cell therapy and PRP therapy to relieve pain and expedite healing. In stem cell therapy, adult stem cells are first removed from the blood and then injected into the knee to promote the healing of any damaged tissue. PRP therapy also involves the harvesting of components from blood, however, in this case, platelets are isolated and injected into the knee which promotes repair and healing through growth factors.
Knee Surgery
Finally, orthopedic doctors may recommend surgery as a last-resort option to treat any remaining conditions. This may involve knee replacement, ligament reconstruction, stitching of torn cartilage, removal of bone fragments, or other procedures to remedy conditions that cannot be treated with less invasive methods.
Conclusion: What will a doctor do for knee pain?
Ultimately, the method a doctor will use to treat knee pain is entirely dependent on the condition, its severity, and the patient’s past medical history. If you’re seeking treatment for a chronic or acute condition, you can find support with Great Lakes Orthopaedics. Reach out today to learn more about our highly specialized orthopaedic treatments and get back to living your best active life.
Medical Disclaimer
The information in this article is provided for general information only. It is not intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional consultation with a healthcare provider familiar with your medical background and history. For treatment options for a condition you may be facing, schedule an appointment with a professional to discuss paths to recovery.
