Chronic knee pain
What is Chronic knee pain?
Chronic knee pain is persistent pain lasting beyond the expected recovery period. It is not a single diagnosis. Causes may include arthritis, meniscal pathology, tendon overload, patellofemoral pain, instability, referred pain, inflammatory disease or pain after previous surgery.
Common symptoms
Symptoms vary and may include aching, swelling, catching, giving way, pain with stairs, difficulty kneeling, reduced walking tolerance, night pain or recurrent flares after activity.
Diagnosis and imaging
A systematic assessment is essential. Examination looks at alignment, gait, range of motion, swelling, ligament stability, patella tracking, hip contribution and specific pain generators. X-rays, MRI or blood tests are used selectively based on the likely diagnosis.
Non-surgical treatment
Treatment is targeted to the cause and may include physiotherapy, strengthening, load management, weight optimisation, medication, injections, braces, footwear changes or management of inflammatory and metabolic contributors.
Surgical treatment
Surgery is considered only when there is a clear structural problem that matches the symptoms and has a reliable surgical solution. Chronic pain without a defined surgical target is best managed with a broader rehabilitation and pain strategy.
Recovery and follow-up
Recovery depends on identifying the driver of pain and matching treatment to it. Progress is usually measured by improved function, fewer flares, better strength and greater confidence rather than imaging alone.
Chronic knee pain FAQs
Why does my MRI show changes but no one recommends surgery?
MRI findings are common and do not always cause pain. Surgery is most useful when symptoms, examination and imaging all point to the same treatable problem.
How is chronic knee pain diagnosed?
Diagnosis starts with a focused history and examination, then uses imaging selectively to confirm the pattern of injury, exclude related problems and plan treatment accurately.
Can chronic knee pain improve after months or years?
Yes. When the true drivers are identified, targeted rehabilitation and treatment can still improve function and reduce pain.
Will I need surgery for chronic knee pain?
Many patients improve without surgery. Surgery is considered when symptoms remain limiting despite appropriate non-surgical care, when there is significant structural damage, or when delay may compromise function.
What information should I bring to an appointment?
Previous imaging, operation reports, injection history, physiotherapy notes and a clear description of what aggravates or relieves the pain are all helpful.
Reconstructive Orthopaedics Melbourne (ROM)
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