With any knee pain, it's normal to wonder what’s wrong and whether it’s time to see a doctor. At Accelerated Medical, we’re here to help. Whether you’ve suffered an acute injury or your pain came out of nowhere, Dr. Wade Taylor and Dr. Shannon McKinney are experts in diagnosing and treating knee pain in Elko, NV.
What are the common causes of knee pain?
Acute injury
Acute injuries from sports, auto accidents, work-related issues, or just general physical activity can cause swelling, ligament or tendon tears or sprains, soft-tissue problems, bone bruising, and more. This type of knee pain tends to be the most visible, due to its sudden onset and the presence of swelling or discoloration.
Repetitive stress or overuse injury
Conditions for overuse injury stem from repeated strain on the knee structure in a way the body can’t sustain. As such, running, jumping, squatting, or even just walking or standing incorrectly over long periods can result in knee pain.
Aging
Activity levels that may have been easier when we were young tend to cause more wear and tear on the body as we age. The degeneration of cartilage, muscular atrophy, and loss of lubrication in the knee can cause knee pain with age. In some cases, loss of bone density and osteoarthritis come into play as well.
How Is Knee Pain Treated in Elko, NV?
At Accelerated Medical, our doctors will first speak with you about the problem, what happened, and how long it’s been an issue. Then, we will conduct a thorough examination of your knee and surrounding structures to diagnose the problem. Once we’ve uncovered the issue, your doctor will create an individualized treatment plan for you, that may involve one, many, or all of the following:
- Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
- Chiropractic care
- Hydro massage therapy
- Corrective exercise/physical therapy
- Ultrasound
- Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS)
- Cryotherapy
- …and more.
How Do I Know if My Knee Pain Is Serious?
If your pain has persisted to the point it’s bothering your life, it’s time to take it seriously. Other indicators of a serious issue include:
- Excessive swelling
- Inability to fully flex or extend the knee
- Inability to stand, walk, or bear weight at all
- A clear deformity
- Unbearable acute pain
- An audible pop or click when injured
When Should I Talk to a Doctor About My Knee Pain?
If you’ve experienced any of the above, or are just sick of feeling hindered by a constant ache in your knee, come talk with us. Get in touch with Dr. Taylor, and Dr. McKinney, and the rest of our staff at Accelerated Medical about your knee pain by calling our Elko, NV office at (775) 753-7387.