Knee Pain Treatment in New Jersey

The knee is a complex joint essential for a wide range of movements and for bearing much of our weight during activity. Injuries to the knee can be as varied as the activities that cause them, like overuse, sudden movements during sports, improper alignment, or traumatic impact.

Whether your knee pain is due to a sudden twist on the field resulting in a meniscal tear or a gradual onset of pain from osteoarthritis, our orthopedic specialists are here for you. Our dedicated orthopedic team delivers personalized care, expert diagnosis and comprehensive treatment options to optimize recovery from knee injuries.

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Types of Knee Conditions We Treat

Knee injuries can range from mild to severe. Common knee injuries include:

• ACL injury. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is key to knee stability. Injuries here can cause pain, swelling and instability.
• MCL injury. Injuries to the medial collateral ligament (MCL) often occur when a force pushes the knee sideways. They can cause pain and swelling in the inner knee and make the knee feel loose or unstable.
• PCL injury. The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) plays a key role in stabilizing the knee. Injuries here can happen with a direct impact to the front of the knee, such as from a car accident or a fall. PCL injuries may result in pain, swelling and difficulty walking.
• Baker’s cyst. Also known as popliteal cyst, Baker’s cyst is a collection of joint fluid in the back of the knee behind the joint which can cause pain and swelling. Treatment options include aspiration, injection and excision or rest.
• Bursitis. Bursitis of the knee occurs when the small sacs of fluid that cushion the knee joint become inflamed. This condition leads to pain and can restrict movement. It's often a result of repetitive motions or prolonged pressure on the knee.
• Jumper’s knee. Also known as Osgood-Schlatter disease, jumper's knee is an overuse injury causing pain at the front of the knee, typically where the patellar tendon attaches to the shinbone. It's common in adolescents experiencing growth spurts and can cause a bump in this area.
• Patellar and quadriceps tendon injuries. Injuries to the kneecap (patella) or quadriceps tendons can occur from jumping or rapid direction changes. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, and an inability to straighten the knee.
• Patellofemoral pain. Patellofemoral pain syndrome is characterized by pain around the kneecap and in the front of the knee. It can be a result of misalignment, muscle imbalance or overuse.
• Torn meniscus. The meniscus is a cartilage that stabilizes and cushions providing support and protection to the surrounding bones and joints as they move, rotate, and bear weight. Tears can lead to pain, swelling and difficulty moving the knee.

Whether you're an athlete or someone who enjoys an active lifestyle, understanding the sources of knee pain is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. Early recognition of symptoms is essential for preventing further damage.

Knee Pain Causes

Several factors can increase the risk of knee pain and injuries, including:

• Age. As people get older, the cartilage in the knee can wear down, and muscles can weaken, increasing the risk of pain and injury.
• Overuse. Repetitive motion from activities like running, jumping, or cycling can lead to overuse injuries in the knee.
• Excessive weight. Being overweight or obese puts extra pressure on the knee joints, which can lead to pain and conditions like osteoarthritis.
• Lack of muscle flexibility or strength. Tight or weak muscles offer less support for the knee and can lead to injuries.
• Sports participation. Certain sports that involve quick turns and stops, jumping or repetitive impact can increase the risk of knee injury.
• Improper training. Exercising without proper warmup or without the correct form can put unnecessary stress on the knee.
• Previous injury. Having a previous knee injury makes it more likely to injure your knee again.
• Genetics. Some conditions like flat feet or knees that turn in or out can make one more susceptible to knee problems due to the alignment and impact on the knee.
• Occupational hazards. Jobs that require kneeling, squatting or lifting heavy objects can increase the risk of knee injury.
• Certain diseases. Medical conditions such as osteoporosis or arthritis can weaken bones or joints, making them more vulnerable to pain and injury.
• Degradation of or irritation from a prosthetic knee implant. If you have had a partial or total knee replacement, it may be wearing, causing pain and swelling.

Understanding these risk factors can help in developing strategies to prevent knee pain and injuries, such as maintaining a healthy weight, strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and using proper techniques during physical activities.

Knee Pain Symptoms

Symptoms of knee injuries can include:

• Localized pain
• Swelling
• Instability
• A popping sensation at the time of injury
• Difficulty in bearing weight or moving the knee
• Back of knee pain

Knee Pain Diagnosis

To diagnose a knee injury, an orthopedic specialist will conduct a comprehensive examination, review your medical history with you, and may perform tests such as:

• Palpation. Checking the knee to identify areas of tenderness, swelling or warmth.
• Range of motion tests. Assessing the range of motion by asking the patient to bend or extend the knee.
• Evaluation of the stability of the knee. Stressing the knee to assess the integrity of the ligament.
• Observation of movement. Observing gait patterns to detect limping or difficulty with weight bearing.
• Imaging tests. Using X-rays, MRI, CT scans or ultrasound enables orthopedic doctors to get a detailed view of the knee structures.

Our Treatment Approach

Effective management of knee pain is crucial for maintaining an active lifestyle and ensuring long-term joint health. Our treatment approach may include:

• Thorough assessment and accurate diagnosis
• Personalized treatment strategies tailored to each individual's condition
• Use of both advanced nonsurgical methods and cutting-edge surgical techniques
• Expert care from seasoned orthopedic specialists for a successful recovery

We accompany our patients through their entire knee pain journey, from the initial consultation to complete rehabilitation. With our modern facilities, a team of expert orthopedists, orthopedic surgeons, and dedicated sports medicine professionals, we offer a holistic approach to knee pain treatment.

Our treatment plans are customized according to the severity of the knee condition and may range from conservative management to advanced surgical repair. Our therapeutic options include:

• RICE technique. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) can manage swelling and pain and allow the tendon to heal.
• Immobilization. Using braces or supports to stabilize the knee and facilitate recovery.
• Physical therapy. Targeted exercises to strengthen the knee joint and improve flexibility.
• Anti-inflammatory medication. Both prescription and over-the-counter drugs can alleviate pain and inflammation. Some cases may call for the administration of corticosteroid injections.
• Surgery. In some cases, surgery may be indicated to alleviate knee pain.

Knee Surgery

When nonsurgical treatments do not get rid of the pain, our expert surgeons may perform minimally invasive surgeries, including knee arthroscopy, meniscal debridement or repair and ligament reconstruction. If arthritis progresses, partial or total knee replacement surgery may be indicated. We also specialize in advanced treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP)therapy and other regenerative medicine techniques to foster healing and recovery and relieve knee pain.

Orthopedic Rehabilitation and Recovery from Knee Pain Treatment

The recovery period from treatment for knee pain can vary widely; minor knee pain may subside within a few weeks, while more significant injuries, including those requiring surgery, could necessitate several months of orthopedic rehabilitation. We design personalized rehabilitation programs to provide the best outcomes to get back to activities of daily life more quickly.

Rehabilitation can be a pivotal component of the recovery process. Our orthopedic team develops individualized recovery plans which may include:

• Progressive weight-bearing exercises to gradually restore strength and support to the knee.
• Stretching and strengthening routines to increase the range of motion and muscle support around the knee.
• Gait and balance training to improve mobility and prevent future injuries.

Expert Care for Knee Pain

RWJBarnabas Health is New Jersey’s largest and most comprehensive academic health care system. We offer award-winning medical services, highly skilled orthopedists and board-certified orthopedic surgeons. Our facilities have state-of-the-art equipment essential for accurately diagnosing and effectively treating knee injuries.

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Don't let knee pain go untreated. Early intervention by our orthopedic specialists can prevent complications and expedite recovery. Contact us today.

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