Knee pain is something many people have to deal with, regardless of age. Injury, age, and joint-related conditions can cause knee pain. Discomfort may also stem from physical overactivity. Though rest and proper care can treat mild discomfort, severe and/or chronic pain should not be ignored. Symptoms can be diagnosed early to help prevent pain from progressing and other issues from arising.
Here are signs that your knee pain requires medical attention:
Knee Osteoarthritis (Knee OA)
Knee osteoarthritis (knee OA) is a common joint condition that develops when the protective cartilage inside the knee gradually wears down. This condition is responsible for pain, swelling, and stiffness. A person may also experience limited mobility of their knee.
The symptoms may be more noticeable in people who engage in activities that require sustained walking, standing, and climbing stairs. Early detection and management of knee osteoarthritis is beneficial in helping the patient live an active lifestyle.
Persistent Pain That Does Not Improve
Although rest and reduced activity may help with knee discomfort, persistent discomfort for an extended period, perhaps for a few weeks, may point to a different concern. Should the knee discomfort impede everyday tasks such as standing and walking, then seeing a medical professional is recommended. Chronic pain can signal underlying concerns such as inflammation and injury.
Swelling and Redness Around the Knee
Injury and inflammation can lead to swelling in the knee area. For minor swelling, a little rest and ice packs should suffice. For swelling of a greater and recurrent nature, professional medical care is recommended.
When swelling in the knee is accompanied by warmth, redness, and fever, this can indicate a joint infection. Urgent medical evaluation is recommended.
Difficulty Walking or Bending the Knee
Stiff knees or difficulty achieving full knee movement are other warning signs. Difficulty getting knee movement, like most warning signs, can develop gradually or happen all at once. Stiffness may develop after lying still in bed, climbing stairs, or after sitting for an extended period and attempting to stand.
Bending, or even straightening, a knee may also become difficult. In more advanced cases, a knee may feel as though it is locking or giving way, often indicating an issue in or around the joint itself, such as ligament damage.
Suddenly Painful Knee
A sudden knee pain should never be ignored. Especially after falling or having a sporting accident, painful and suddenly swollen knees that also cause an inability to support weight should also be investigated for possible ligament damage or a fracture. You should seek medical advice promptly. Refrain from bearing weight on your injured knee.
Conclusion
Temporary pain, swelling, and stiffness may resolve without the need for medical attention. However, when those symptoms are chronic and associated with a loss of function, such as walking, a professional assessment may be required to prevent further damage. The importance of maintaining mobility by addressing joint health cannot be overstated. Joint health may be improved through regular exercise and good dietary choices.
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