111-29 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375
111-29 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY 11375
Knee pain can really cramp your style. Whether it leads to complete immobility, constant discomfort or nagging pain when you play your favorite sport, you want relief. Your pain management specialist at the Medex Diagnostic and Treatment Center, often in consultation with another specialist at the multi-specialty practice in Queens, New York, has real solutions. From proactive preventive steps to targeted therapy and treatment, the Medex team of doctors provides you with a wealth of experience and options. Call today for an appointment to rid yourself of knee pain.
Knee pain is a common complaint, but it’s one that impacts your quality of life and impede your daily activities. To make matters worse, there are many factors that can cause knee pain. Your pain management doctor at the Medex Diagnostic and Treatment Center in Queens, NY knows how to uncover what’s causing your knee pain. Only then can treatment begin.
You may have the early warning signs of knee pain. That’s actually the best time to visit a knee specialist. You’ll minimize the pain in your knee with early intervention and self-care strategies.
Your pain management doctor talks about prevention during your very first visit. Even your primary care physician emphasizes preventative care. But if your knee already hurts, the Medex multi-specialty facility has state-of-the-art and in-depth testing capability to discover exactly what’s causing your knee pain.
Most knee pain is caused by an injury or repetitive motion. If you run, hike or work in situations that require constant bending, you can end up with knee pain. Aging — and the consequences from years of wear and tear — take its toll on your knees.
Underlying conditions such as arthritis and obesity often have a direct impact on the health of your knees. Preventing knee pain starts by taking your pain management doctor’s advice to:
Without the proper treatment, your knee pain can get worse or become chronic. Untreated arthritis can cause lasting damage to your knee cartilage. Other risks for developing knee pain include:
If your knee hurts, have it examined. It’s best to address your knee pain sooner rather than later. Knee pain rarely goes away on its own, and the longer you wait, the worse the condition may become.
At the Medex Diagnostic and Treatment Center, specialists from a wide range of medical specialties collaborate to treat you. Diagnostics, such as x-rays and digital scans, reveal the extent of the damage to your knee. Whether due to a sports or work-related injury or accident, your doctor determines the cause of your pain. It may be a:
When self-care and at-home treatments don’t provide sufficient relief, your pain management doctor in Queens, NY may send you to physical therapy to rebuild your knee strength and train you to move in ways that don’t cause further injury.
Your doctor monitors your physical therapy to ensure your specific needs are met. Some of the tools and techniques available through your Medex physical therapist include:
Depending on the severity of your pain and the effectiveness of your lifestyle changes and physical therapy sessions, your pain management doctor may decide to try a more invasive technique. Even minimally invasive surgery is put off until you know the other treatments haven’t worked for you.
Fortunately, your doctor at the Medex Diagnostic and Treatment Center has access to a wide range of more intense treatments to deal with stubborn knee pain. Sometimes, minimally or non-invasive procedures are required to ensure your pain is addressed completely. These knee pain treatments include:
Prescription pain medication is useful for a short period of time, but surgery, including a knee replacement, is always the last resort. Your pain management specialist works to provide maximum pain relief to return you to an active lifestyle. Don’t suffer needlessly with knee pain. Contact the Medex Diagnostic and Treatment Center in Queens for the most complete knee treatment options.
We can help you find a doctor. Call (718) 275-8900
Licensed by the state of New York, Medex is an Article 28 diagnostic and treatment center. Our physicians provide comprehensive care for patients of all ages in the Forest Hills, Queens area, for over 15 years. Start receiving expert care now by calling or scheduling an appointment online with one of the skilled specialists.
Who to see for knee pain?
If you’re experiencing knee pain, the best specialist to see depends on the severity and cause of your condition. For sudden injuries, swelling, or severe pain, visit an orthopedic doctor near you or sports medicine specialist, as they diagnose and treat joint injuries, arthritis, and chronic knee issues. For mild to moderate pain or mobility concerns, a primary care doctor or physical therapist can provide initial assessments, exercises, and pain management strategies. If your pain is due to inflammation or autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, a rheumatologist may be the best choice. For persistent or worsening pain, seeking medical advice early can prevent long-term damage and improve recovery outcomes.
What helps bone on bone knee pain without surgery?
To relieve bone-on-bone knee pain without surgery, focus on low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling to strengthen muscles and reduce joint stress. Weight management helps ease pressure on the knees, while physical therapy improves flexibility and mobility. Bracing or orthotic shoe inserts can provide extra support, and anti-inflammatory medications or cortisone injections can reduce pain and swelling. Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin may help with joint health, and hyaluronic acid injections may improve lubrication. Alternative therapies like acupuncture or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may also offer relief. Always consult a doctor for a personalized treatment plan.
What causes knee pain after hip replacement surgery?
Knee pain after hip replacement surgery is often caused by changes in leg alignment, altered gait, or muscle imbalances as the body adjusts to the new hip joint. Weak or tight muscles, especially in the quadriceps, hamstrings, or glutes, can put extra strain on the knee. Inflammation, swelling, or nerve irritation from surgery may also contribute to discomfort. If the operated leg becomes slightly longer or shorter, it can affect knee mechanics, leading to pain. Pre-existing arthritis in the knee or overuse during recovery can worsen symptoms. Physical therapy, proper footwear, and gradual strengthening exercises can help relieve knee pain after hip replacement surgery.
How to instantly fix knee pain when going up and down stairs?
To instantly reduce knee pain when going up and down stairs, use the “step-up with support” technique by leading with your stronger leg going up and your weaker leg going down. Engage your core and use a handrail for stability to reduce pressure on the knee joint. Wearing supportive shoes or a knee brace can provide extra cushioning and alignment. Applying ice or using a topical pain reliever before activity may help reduce inflammation. Strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes through low-impact exercises like leg lifts and step-ups can improve long-term knee stability and function.
What helps nerve pain after knee replacement?
To relieve nerve pain after knee replacement, try gentle stretching and nerve glide exercises to improve mobility and reduce nerve irritation. Over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription nerve pain medications (like gabapentin), or anti-inflammatory drugs may help manage discomfort. Cold therapy may numb sharp pain, while heat therapy relaxes muscles and improves circulation. Massage, acupuncture, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) may provide additional relief. If pain persists, consult your <ahref=”https://www.medexdtc.com/orthopedics/”>doctor about nerve blocks or other advanced treatments to manage post-surgical nerve pain effectively.
What doctor to see for knee pain?
For knee pain, the best doctor to see depends on the cause and severity of your symptoms. An orthopedic doctor or sports medicine specialist is ideal for diagnosing and treating injuries, arthritis, and chronic knee conditions. A primary care doctor can assess mild to moderate pain and refer you to a specialist if needed. If your pain is caused by inflammation or an autoimmune disorder like rheumatoid arthritis, a rheumatologist is the best choice. A physical therapist can help with rehabilitation and strengthening exercises to improve mobility. Seeking medical attention early can prevent further damage and speed up recovery.
Why can’t I bend my knee all the way back without pain?
If you can’t bend your knee all the way back without pain, it could be due to injuries, inflammation, or joint stiffness. Common causes include meniscus tears, ligament injuries, arthritis, or patellar tendonitis, which can limit flexibility and cause discomfort. Swelling from overuse, bursitis, or scar tissue buildup after surgery or injury can also restrict movement. Muscle tightness in the hamstrings or quadriceps may contribute to stiffness and pain. Applying ice or heat, stretching, and physical therapy exercises may help improve mobility. If pain persists, consult an orthopedic doctor to diagnose the underlying issue and prevent further joint damage.
What causes pain behind the knee after total knee replacement?
Pain behind the knee after total knee replacement is often caused by swelling, muscle tightness, or nerve irritation as the body adjusts to the new joint. Hamstring or calf muscle strain, scar tissue buildup, or inflammation of the popliteal tendon or bursa can also contribute to discomfort. In some cases, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or improper implant alignment may be the cause. Gentle stretching, physical therapy, ice or heat therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications can help relieve pain. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your surgeon to rule out complications and ensure proper healing.
What causes knee pain when squatting?
Knee pain when squatting can be caused by several factors, including muscle imbalances, overuse, or improper form. Common causes include patellar tendinitis, where the tendon below the kneecap becomes inflamed, or patellofemoral pain syndrome, which results from misalignment of the kneecap during movement. Osteoarthritis can lead to pain from joint degeneration, while ligament injuries (like an ACL tear) or meniscus tears can also cause discomfort. Tight quadriceps, hamstrings, or calf muscles may contribute to the pain, as can weak stabilizing muscles around the knee. Improving form, strengthening muscles, and using supportive footwear can help alleviate pain. If symptoms persist, a healthcare provider should be consulted to determine the exact cause.
How to treat burning knee pain?
Burning knee pain can be treated by addressing the underlying cause, such as inflammation, nerve irritation, or overuse. Applying cold compresses helps reduce swelling and numb the pain, while heat therapy can relax tight muscles and improve blood flow. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications or topical pain relievers may provide temporary relief. Physical therapy focusing on strengthening the muscles around the knee can reduce pressure on the joint. If the burning sensation is caused by nerve issues, nerve pain medications like gabapentin or a TENS unit may be helpful. If pain persists or worsens, consult a doctor to rule out conditions like nerve compression, bursitis, or arthritis, and receive a personalized treatment plan.
Can plantar fasciitis cause knee pain?
Yes, plantar fasciitis can cause knee pain due to the interconnected nature of the body’s musculoskeletal system. When the plantar fascia (the ligament supporting the arch of the foot) is inflamed, it can alter your walking gait and lead to imbalances in the lower body. This can put extra strain on the knees, hips, and lower back, potentially causing pain or discomfort in these areas. Over time, this misalignment can result in knee pain, especially if the foot’s arch is collapsing or if the heel pain causes you to shift weight unevenly. Treating plantar fasciitis with stretching exercises, supportive footwear, orthotics, and rest may help alleviate knee pain by correcting these imbalances.
Can sciatica cause knee pain?
Yes, sciatica can cause knee pain as it results from compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and down each leg. When the sciatic nerve is affected, it can lead to pain, numbness, or tingling radiating down the leg, including the knee. The discomfort may be felt directly in the knee or in the surrounding areas as the nerve pathways affect the entire lower limb. Sciatica-related knee pain is often accompanied by other symptoms like lower back pain, hip pain, or weakness in the leg. Treatment may include physical therapy, stretching exercises, anti-inflammatory medications, or nerve pain medications to reduce irritation and improve mobility.
Can tight hamstrings cause knee pain?
Yes, tight hamstrings can cause knee pain by creating imbalances in the muscles surrounding the knee. When the hamstrings are tight, they can pull on the pelvis and change the alignment of the knee joint, increasing stress on the knee structures, including the patellar tendon and ligaments. This altered alignment can lead to pain in the knee during activities like squatting, walking, or climbing stairs. Additionally, tight hamstrings can contribute to muscle weakness or instability around the knee, making it more susceptible to injuries or discomfort. Stretching and strengthening the hamstrings, along with regular mobility exercises, can help alleviate knee pain caused by tightness in the hamstrings.
What causes knee pain in females?
Knee pain in females can be caused by a variety of factors, including biomechanical differences, hormonal changes, and lifestyle factors. Women are more prone to knee injuries due to wider hips, which can affect alignment and increase stress on the knee joint. Conditions like patellofemoral pain syndrome, osteoarthritis, or ligament injuries (such as an ACL tear) are common culprits. Hormonal fluctuations, especially during pregnancy or menopause, can affect joint stability, while overuse, lack of exercise, or improper footwear can also contribute to discomfort. Additionally, muscle imbalances, particularly weak quadriceps or tight hamstrings, can lead to knee pain. Regular exercise, proper posture, and physical therapy can help prevent and manage knee pain in females.
What are the 3 injections for knee pain?
The three common injections for knee pain are corticosteroid injections, hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation) injections, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections. Corticosteroid injections are used to reduce inflammation and provide short-term pain relief, particularly for conditions like arthritis. Hyaluronic acid injections help lubricate the knee joint, improving mobility and reducing pain caused by osteoarthritis. PRP injections, which involve using a patient’s own blood platelets to promote healing, are often used for more chronic knee issues and injuries to stimulate tissue repair. Each of these injections has different benefits depending on the underlying cause of knee pain, and your doctor will recommend the best option based on your specific condition.
How long does pain last after knee replacement?
Pain after knee replacement typically lasts for several weeks to months, with most patients experiencing significant relief within the first 3 to 6 months. Initially, acute pain from surgery and swelling is common, and may be managed with pain medications, ice, and physical therapy. Mild to moderate discomfort may persist for up to 3 to 6 months, especially with activity, as the body adjusts to the new knee joint. For some patients, low-grade pain or stiffness can continue for up to a year, particularly if there’s scar tissue or muscle weakness. However, most individuals experience a significant reduction in pain and improved mobility within 6 months, with long-term pain relief after a year. Regular physical therapy and adherence to post-surgery care can help speed up recovery and reduce pain.
What causes sudden knee pain without injury?
Sudden knee pain without injury can be caused by several conditions, including arthritis, where inflammation in the joint leads to sharp or aching pain, or bursitis, which is inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee. Tendonitis, especially in the patellar tendon, can also cause sudden pain due to overuse or strain. Other causes include gout, where uric acid crystals build up in the joint, and plica syndrome, which occurs when the lining of the knee joint becomes irritated. Additionally, meniscus tears or ligament issues might not always be linked to a specific injury but can result in unexpected pain. In some cases, knee pain can also be referred to as pain from the hips or lower back, highlighting the need for a proper diagnosis from a doctor to determine the underlying cause.
What is better for knee pain, heat or cold?
For knee pain, cold therapy is best for acute injuries, swelling, and inflammation, as it reduces blood flow and numbs pain—ideal for sprains, strains, or post-workout soreness. Heat therapy works better for chronic pain, stiffness, and arthritis, as it increases blood circulation, relaxes muscles, and improves mobility. If the knee is swollen, start with ice for 15-20 minutes every few hours, then switch to heat once inflammation decreases to ease stiffness. Avoid heat on an inflamed knee and ice if you have poor circulation. For persistent pain, consult a doctor to determine the best treatment.
How to relieve knee pain?
To relieve knee pain, start with rest, ice, and elevation to reduce swelling and inflammation. Applying an ice pack for 15-20 minutes several times a day can numb the area and alleviate discomfort. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may also help manage pain. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for the muscles around the knee, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves, can improve stability and reduce pressure on the joint. Using supportive footwear and knee braces can provide added comfort and alignment. For persistent or severe pain, consult a doctor about options like physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or hyaluronic acid injections to improve mobility and reduce inflammation.
What causes knee pain?
Knee pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including injuries, such as sprains, strains, ligament tears (like ACL injuries), or meniscus tears, which often result from sudden movements or trauma. Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, is a common cause of chronic knee pain due to wear and tear on the joint cartilage. Tendonitis and bursitis, resulting from overuse or inflammation of the tendons and fluid-filled sacs around the knee, can also lead to pain. Other causes include patellar maltracking, gout, and muscle imbalances around the knee that put additional stress on the joint. In some cases, knee pain can be referred from issues in the hips or lower back. Identifying the root cause is essential for effective treatment and management of knee pain.
How to get rid of knee pain fast?
To get rid of knee pain fast, start by resting the knee and applying ice for 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours to reduce inflammation and numb the area. Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen may help alleviate pain and swelling. Use compression (like an elastic bandage or knee brace) and elevate the knee to minimize swelling. Performing gentle stretches and mobility exercises can help relieve stiffness, but avoid overexertion. If pain persists, consider using topical pain relievers or heat therapy to relax muscles after the initial inflammation has reduced. For persistent pain, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for a tailored treatment plan.
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