You’re walking up the stairs and feel a twinge of pain in your knees… sound familiar? If you’ve ever experienced persistent knee pain, you’re not alone. Knee pain is a common complaint, specifically when bending the joint. The discomfort can occur for a variety of reasons— from arthritis to overexertion. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most common causes of knee pain when bending and what you can do about it.
For same-day acute injury care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Toms River. Our team of medical providers specialize in diagnosing a range of acute conditions. Simply walk into the clinic to start recovering in the right hands today.
Common Causes of Knee Pain
Knee pain can be a frustrating and debilitating issue. One of the most common reasons for knee pain when bending is arthritis. Arthritis in the knee occurs when the cartilage in the joint breaks down, and can worsen overtime if left untreated. As the cartilage in the knee wears away, the bones in the joint rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. You may notice immediate stiffness after waking up, and can become more noticeable when moving around.
Overexertion of the knee can also cause persistent pain when bending. Overuse injuries can be caused by repetitive movement or excessive strain on the joint. You may be experiencing knee pain from sudden increases in activity, like starting a new exercise or participating in intense physical activity. When the knee is overexerted, it's likely you’ll feel pain and stiffness when bending the joint.
Traumatic injuries can also lead to knee pain overtime. This includes sports injuries, slips, falls, and work-related accidents, which are likely to cause noticeable pain to the affected joint. It’s important to get a professional diagnosis of the injury, in order to determine if you have sustained a meniscus or ligament tear.
Diagnosing & Treating Knee Pain
If you’ve been experiencing knee pain when bending the joint, and don’t know why, it’s crucial to get a proper diagnosis. At an urgent care center, patients can receive quick and accurate diagnoses of acute injuries. Digital x-rays can detect the slightest tears of a ligament or fracture. Once diagnosed, your medical provider will plan a proper treatment regimen which may include rest and ice, physical therapy, and prescription medication. It’s important to avoid activities that will further aggravate your symptoms. Applying ice to the joint works to reduce pain and swelling. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair a torn meniscus or ligament. Whatever your individual case may be, a healthcare provider will plan an individualized treatment plan to address your immediate pain and work toward preventing future discomfort.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Toms River For Acute Injury Care
If you’re experiencing knee pain, visit AFC Urgent Care Toms River for same-day treatment. Our team is here to provide quality care when you need it. We never require appointments, and the clinic stays open seven days a week. We strive to make healthcare easy and accessible for every patient in the area. Once your injury is diagnosed, your healthcare provider will advise you on more information about recovery time and at-home care. If you have any further questions about knee pain, please contact our team directly at (732) 719-7788.
