Knee Pain

Knee pain radiates in the middle of the shin and kneecap and can become progressively worse if left untreated. Experiencing sore knees is not uncommon, and many people, young and old, experience sore knees at some point in their lives.

Why do we have knee pain?

Knee pain can occur for several reasons: joint overuse, strain, sports injury, old age, obesity or degenerative bone disease.

Sore or painful knees could be a result of the following:

• Tendonitis occurs as a result of inflammation from an injury, causing the tendon to swell.
• The Osgood-Schlatter disease causes the hard bony prominence underneath the kneecap to become painful. As a result, the tuberosity may swell when engaging in physical activity.
• Patellofemoral pain syndrome causes swelling and pain in the surrounding area of the knee, particularly behind the knee.
• Osteoarthritis affecting the knee is a common form of arthritis causing knee pain. Osteoarthritis is likely to occur in older people fifty and over.

How does Dr van Niekerk check for knee pain?

Dr van Niekerk can form an accurate diagnosis based on your symptoms and a physical assessment of the knee. He may suggest more detailed imaging studies based on the severity of the condition.

How do you treat knee pain?

Should knee pain fail to dissipate, Dr van Niekerk will suggest several treatments to alleviate pain. Conservative treatment measures include prescription medication such as painkillers and physiotherapy.

While most non-surgical methods are known to improve knee pain over time, a severe underlying condition such as knee osteoarthritis may require surgery. Normally, knee replacement therapy is a standard treatment for debilitating knee pain.

However, knee surgery and injections in the knee are not always necessary. Pain management therapies are entirely useful and can help you lead an active, happy and productive lifestyle without surgery. However, Dr van Niekerk will decide the most feasible option for you based on your medical history and physical exam.