Are You Looking for a Knee Pain Doctor?
If you are struggling with knee pain and wondering if it is time to go see a doctor, you are one of the millions of people who are in the same boat. In some instances, a twisted knee may recover quickly on its own and you can get back to your usual routine. In other cases, unfortunately, knee pain can be chronic and it can be severe, leaving you unable to perform your regular daily tasks. Often, a knee pain doctor may ask you to perform several of the steps below in the first stages of your knee pain to see if you can recover quickly:
- Icing your knee. Icing your knee can allow your inflammation to go down. Doing so on and off for 20 minutes a day can benefit you.
- Resting your knee. It’s always good to keep active but be extra wary if you have a bad knee. Rest and keep your leg elevated. This can help reduce any swelling you may have.
- Try compression bands. Compression bands that fit around your knee can help reduce your swelling and increase blood flow to the injured area.
When should you see a doctor?
If you are able to try the steps above, you may notice some improvement in your knee. However, if your knee is not getting better, it may be time to see your doctor. Knee pain that comes with a fever, excruciating pain, tenderness around the joint, and bad swelling means it’s time to get medical help.
When you are speaking with your doctor, you will have a better chance at getting the help you need if you can provide them with:
- Information regarding what worsens your pain or makes it better
- How the injury occurred and how long it has been hurting
- Precisely where the pain is
- Words describing the kind of pain you are experiencing (burning, throbbing, stabbing)
How can your doctor diagnose your knee pain?
Your doctor may be able to diagnose your knee pain by giving your a physical exam. However, for more serious issues or to take a better look at arthritis, your doctor may choose to use different imaging tests like a CT scan, an X-ray, or an MRI. Once your doctor gives you a diagnosis, they may recommend different forms of treatment, including injections, physical therapy, or surgical options as a last resort.
If you are suffering from knee pain and need to find help, contact a doctor, like a knee pain doctor from a medical practice like Premier Osteoarthritis Centers of Pennsylvania today.