If you work on your feet or lead an active lifestyle, you might regularly experience minor pains and aches. You have likely put off seeing a specialist because you think the discomfort will go away if you wait a little longer.
This hypothesis holds true in some circumstances, but what about when it does not? In this post, New Jersey knee pain specialist Dr. Faheem Abbasi goes over ten warning signs that you should see a doctor about knee pain. Continue reading to learn more.
1. Long-Term Discomfort Or Pain
If you attempt to wait, hoping that the pain will subside, but it does not, you should consult a doctor. Typically, athletes should visit a doctor if their discomfort lasts for over 48 hours, while other individuals should see a doctor if their symptoms have not improved after three weeks.
2. Joint Deformity
Take a look at how close your knees are to each other. If your afflicted knee seems deformed in comparison to your healthy knee, you might have a dislocated knee cap, patella injury, or fracture.
3. Walking Difficulty
Consult a doctor if your knee discomfort becomes severe enough to cause you to limp or avoid walking. This level of discomfort could be a sign of a degenerative condition or bone injury.
4. Instability Of The Knee
If you observe that your knee wobbles or feel like it is about to collapse, seek medical attention. Typically, joint instability suggests a ligament issue, which may worsen if you continue to use your knee as normal.
5. Reduced Knee Sensitivity
Whereas numerous knee problems result in pain, the absence of pain could suggest a major health problem. If you experience knee or leg pain that does not worsen whenever you push on the knee, it could be sciatica or another non-knee problem.
6. Pain That Interferes With Your Day-To-Day Activities
Most healthcare experts advise that you make an appointment immediately if you find that your symptoms interfere with your daily life. Have a specialist examine the joint if knee pain renders your commute more tedious, your afternoon jog unpleasant, or your job tougher.
7. Inability to Maintain Body Weight
Do you feel compelled to transfer your weight away from your problematic knee whenever you stand? Seek medical assistance if your injured knee is unable to support your weight. This symptom could signal various knee problems, all of which necessitate medical attention.
8. Restricted Motion Range
Once your knee is injured, it could swell internally. This inflammation might limit your motion range, rendering it harder to completely bend or straighten your leg. Consult a doctor if you observe a reduction in range of motion that persists for over 24 hours.
9. Knee Pain Causes Sleep Disruption
Numerous patients with knee problems have trouble falling or staying asleep. Seek help if your knee discomfort is keeping you up at night.
10. Swelling or Redness Around the Joint
Changes in the color and shape of your knee, including deformity of the joint, can signify major concerns. Touch the knee area if you notice any swelling or redness to see whether there is any warmth or sensitivity. These symptoms could point to an infection.
Do not attempt to wait it out if you have knee pain. If you have one or more of the symptoms described above, you should seek expert attention.
At New Jersey Pain, Spine, and Sports Associates, Dr. Faheem Abbasi will perform cutting-edge diagnostic procedures to determine the root cause of your pain and design an individualized care plan to address your unique concerns. Call the office near you or use the online scheduling tool to make an appointment right away.
