Knee Pain Specialist

Why do I have knee pain?

Knee pain often stems from osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint condition. You may also experience knee pain because of an injury or a mechanical problem caused by wear and tear. Knee pain can also stem from a medical condition, like an infection. 

The knee is a complex joint, so knee pain typically requires some investigation to reach an accurate diagnosis. The source of your knee pain may reside in your tendons, ligaments, or the fluid around your knee joint. The bones and cartilage in your knee may also be responsible for your pain. 

What is knee surgery?

Knee surgery involves making incisions in your knee joint to repair, remove, or replace parts of your knee joint. Doing so can help a joint heal completely, reduce pain, and give you a better quality of life. 

COSMO providers offer innovative knee surgery using state-of-the-art technology and techniques.

What are the signs of a knee injury?

Signs and symptoms of a knee injury include pain, tenderness, stiffness, weakness, instability, and swelling. You may experience a dull, aching pain or sharp knee pain, as well as a decreased range of motion, popping or crunching sounds, and difficulty walking.

What are the risk factors for knee pain?

While anyone can experience knee pain, some factors boost your risk of developing knee problems. Examples include:

• Obesity
• Playing sports
• Lack of strength
• Poor flexibility
• Previous knee injuries
• Certain occupations

Why might I need surgery for knee pain?

You may need knee surgery if you experience one of the following injuries:

• Cartilage defects
• FCL tears
• Posterolateral corner injuries
• Knee osteoarthritis
• Meniscus tears
• Multi-ligament injuries
• Patella instability
• Patellofemoral knee pain
• PCL, ACL, or MCL tears
• Articular cartilage injuries
• Fractures
• Tendinitis
• Inflammation
• Dislocation 

Some knee injuries heal on their own over time. See your COSMO specialist if your knee pain is severe or ongoing. 

How does my doctor diagnose knee pain?

To determine if you're a candidate for knee surgery, your specialist reviews your symptoms and medical history and examines your knee to look for signs of pain, swelling, or a limited range of motion. 

Your provider may have you move your leg into various positions or complete X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, ultrasounds, or lab tests to make a diagnosis.

If you have a minor knee injury, you may only require home remedies, a knee brace, athletic taping, injections, and/or physical therapy. 

What happens during knee surgery?

If knee surgery is right for you, follow all of your pre-surgery instructions. You might need to stop taking certain medications before surgery and avoid foods and drinks the morning of your scheduled procedure. Right before surgery, you receive anesthesia to ensure you don’t feel pain. 

While sedated, your surgeon makes tiny incisions in your knee to repair, remove, or replace tissues within the joint and allow it to heal. Afterward, they close the incisions and take you to a recovery area to rest. 

What should I expect after the procedure?

Have a friend or family member drive you home when your surgeon says it’s okay. Take medications as directed, ice your knee, get plenty of rest, wear a knee brace and use crutches as directed. Begin walking and physical therapy when required and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure your knee heals properly.

Don't live with debilitating knee pain when knee surgery at Colorado Sports Medicine and Orthopaedics can restore knee joint structure and function. Call the office to schedule an appointment or book one online today.