Knee pain can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life. A knee specialist can provide the solution you need to regain comfort and functionality. These medical professionals are trained to diagnose, manage, and treat a wide range of knee conditions, helping patients lead pain-free, more active lives.
As orthopaedic doctors, they have extensive expertise in identifying and treating knee-related conditions and developing personalised treatment plans to suit each patient’s specific needs.
When to See a Knee Specialist
Consulting a specialist can be crucial for effective treatment. Common signs you need a knee specialist include:
- Persistent or worsening knee pain that does not improve with rest, over-the-counter medications or lifestyle adjustments
- Swelling, stiffness, or reduced range of motion
- Difficulty walking, bearing weight on the affected knee, climbing stairs, standing for extended periods or performing routine tasks
- Clicking, popping, or grinding sensations in the knee joint
- Signs of joint deformity or instability
If you experience any of these symptoms, early intervention can prevent further deterioration and improve your recovery outcomes.
Conditions Treated by a Knee Specialist
These orthopaedic specialists are trained to treat various conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis: This degenerative condition is one of the most common reasons people seek a knee specialist for arthritis treatment. By developing tailored care plans, your doctor can help manage your pain, improve joint flexibility, and delay the need for surgery.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: This autoimmune condition can severely affect any or all joints. A knee expert may recommend medication, lifestyle changes, or, in some cases, surgery to improve joint stability and reduce discomfort.
- Meniscus Tears: Injuries to the meniscus often occur during sports or other strenuous activities. Your specialist can determine whether physiotherapy, injections, or surgery is the most appropriate treatment.
- Ligament Injuries: Knee ligament injuries, like a torn ACL, may require reconstructive surgery or physiotherapy. Your specialist will assess the severity of the injury and recommend the best option.
Benefits of Consulting a Knee Specialist
There are many advantages to booking an appointment with an expert, including:
- Accurate diagnoses: These experts can pinpoint the root cause of knee pain effectively.
- Tailored treatments: They can create individualised solutions, whether through physiotherapy, injections, or surgery.
- Advanced procedures: These specialists may recommend cutting-edge treatments like minimally invasive surgery, reducing recovery times and improving outcomes.
Procedures Performed by a Knee Specialist
These specialists employ a range of treatments to address knee conditions, including:
- Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure that uses a tiny camera to diagnose and treat knee problems.
- Knee replacements: Often recommended for severe arthritis, this procedure involves replacing damaged parts of the joint with artificial implants.
- Injections: Corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections can provide effective relief from chronic knee pain.
Don’t Delay Seeking Help
If knee pain or stiffness is affecting your mobility or daily activities, seeing a knee specialist can ensure the care and guidance needed to improve your quality of life. Get expert advice early to prevent your condition from worsening and receive effective treatment tailored to your needs.