A very common problem with people of all ages, knee pain is something a lot of folks live with till it gets unbearable and necessitates treatment. What a lot of people suffering from knee pain do not realize is that knee pain can be brought on by a number of conditions, some of which are easily avoidable or treated.

The common causes of knee pain are injury, such as a torn ligament or torn cartilage. Some medical conditions like infections, gout and arthritis are also known to cause knee pain. These conditions are often aggravated by factors like excessive body weight or lack of flexibility or strength. Engaging in some sports activities is also a risk factor for knee pain as is age.

Knee Pain Diagnosis

Diagnostic tools for knee pain usually involve an X-ray, a CT scan or an MRI. The value of the X-ray is in that it can highlight bone fractures and degenerative bone disease. CT scans, on the other hand, can combine images taken from various angles of the body and create a cross sectional pictures of the body. They are useful because they can detect bone problems and loose bodies within. The MRI or magnetic resonance imaging makes use of radio waves to make 3-D images of the inside of the body. It is a valuable tool for the diagnosis of injuries to soft tissues such as tendons, ligaments, cartilages and muscles.

In some cases, blood tests may also be recommended for people suffering from knee pain. This is especially of the doctor suspects an infection or the existence of gout or even psuedogout. In some cases, a procedure known as arthrocentesis, in which a tiny amount of fluid is extracted from the knee with the help of a syringe and is sent for analysis.

Knee Pain Treatment

Treatment for knee pain will naturally depend on the nature of the diagnosis. If the patient is seen to be suffering from gout, for instance, appropriate drugs will be prescribed.

In some cases, physical therapy such as training the muscles to make them stronger and exercises to improve balance may be prescribed. orthopaedic and bracing and often suggested for patients who are diagnosed with arthritis. If the arthritis is seen to have flared up, corticosteroid injections may be given. It is only in some extreme cases that surgery is prescribed.

In most cases pf knee pain, however, oral medications and physical therapy is sufficient to relieve pain and maintain mobility. Rest, careful exercise and following the medication regime is usually enough to keep knee pain at bay and ensuring that it does not hamper mobility and a regular lifestyle. For those people who engage in strenuous activity and exercise, maintaining an injury free practice is all important. Even the smallest of injuries during games or workouts can lead to grave injuries resulting in pain and distress. Prevention is always better than cure as far as knee pain is concerned.

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