Knee Pain

Knee pain is a common but annoying problem affecting mobility and quality of life. At Houston Methodist Orthopedics and Sports Medicine inHouston and Sugar Land, Texas, board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist Kyle Borque, MD, specializes in diagnosing and treating knee pain. He uses cutting-edge techniques that he’s pioneered to treat ligament, cartilage, and meniscus injuries appropriately. Call the office today to request a knee pain consultation or book online.

What’s knee pain? 

Knee pain is a common musculoskeletal problem. Sometimes, it results from an injury such as torn cartilage or a ruptured ligament. Other times, it results from a medical condition such as arthritis or an infection.  

Most knee pain responds to conservative, at-home treatments such as ice, rest, and elevation. But if your symptoms persist for more than a week or affect your mobility, make an appointment with Dr. Borque.

What are the signs of knee pain? 

Telltale signs of knee pain include: 

• Inability to put weight on the knee
• Weakness
• Instability
• Stiffness

What types of problems cause knee pain? 

Some of the common problems that cause knee pain include:

• Gout
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• Dislocated kneecap
• Torn meniscus
• Knee bursitis
• ACL injuries

You might also experience knee pain because of a loose body. If cartilage or bone in your knee joint deteriorates, it can break off and float in the joint space. 

How is knee pain diagnosed?

To diagnose knee pain, Dr. Borque inspects your knee for swelling, bruising, and tenderness. Next, he pushes and pulls on your affected joint, evaluating the integrity of your knee's muscles, tendons, and ligaments. X-rays are a routine part of the assessment, which allow Dr. Borque to evaluate the bones and space in between. Based on your symptoms, exam, and X-rays, Dr. Borque may order an MRI as well. 

How is knee pain treated?

Knee pain treatment depends on various factors, including age, the severity of your symptoms, and the underlying cause. When possible, Dr. Borque uses conservative treatments that allow quick and pain-free recovery. 

If you’re suffering from mild knee pain, lifestyle changes such as exercise modifications and losing weight may be most beneficial. More severe injuries, however, may require physical therapy or bracing. Dr. Borque might recommend minimally invasive or traditional open orthopedic surgery to treat severe knee pain. 

How can I reduce the risk of knee pain? 

You can significantly reduce your risk of knee pain by stretching and warming up before exercise. Dr. Borque also recommends eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight. 

To receive treatment for knee pain, call Houston Methodist Orthopedics and Sports Medicine or book online today.