Knee Pain
Knee pain is quite common among people of all ages, including kids. Such discomfort usually results from trauma to the knee or from an illness like osteoarthritis which debilitates the structures around it.
The knee joint is particularly vulnerable to injury from:
Twisting motions
Over-stretching
Hyperflexion (excessive bending)
Hyperextension (excessive straightening)
Common Causes of Knee Pain
Direct blows or trauma
Sprains – injuries to ligaments
Strains – injuries to muscles or tendons
Meniscus tears
Osteoarthritis
Ligament injuries – including MCL, LCL, and ACL damage
Sprains vs. Strains
Sprains occur when ligament fibers are stretched or torn. These injuries can result from sudden impacts or placing excess pressure on the knee, such as during weightlifting. Sprains are categorized into three grades:
Grade I – Ligament is stretched, but not torn
Grade II – Partial tear of ligament fibers
Grade III – Complete rupture of the ligament
Strains are tears in muscles or tendons caused by excessive movement, such as hyperflexion or hyperextension. A sudden increase in physical activity—like walking more than usual while traveling—can lead to strain.
Treatment Options at South Miami Walk-In Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
We provide personalized and comprehensive care for patients experiencing knee pain. Our experienced medical team works closely with each patient, utilizing in-house X-rays and ultrasound studies, along with expedited MRI studies, when necessary, to ensure an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan that promotes effective, lasting recovery.
Conservative Therapy
Conservative treatment focuses on reducing the stress or motion that caused the injury. It typically includes:
Rest and activity modification
Ice therapy
Physical therapy to improve circulation, strength, and flexibility
Medications and Injections
Medications may be prescribed to help manage pain and reduce inflammation:
- Pain relievers (as directed by a physician)
- Nutritional supplements:
- Glucosamine
- Chondroitin
- Omega-3 Fish Oil
In cases of persistent or more severe discomfort, we may recommend injection-based therapies:
- Steroid injections to reduce inflammation
- Hyaluronic acid injections to lubricate the joint and improve mobility
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections to stimulate healing using the body’s own growth factors
All injections are administered based on medical evaluation and followed by scheduled check-ins to monitor progress.
Surgical Intervention
When surgery is necessary—particularly in the case of high-impact injuries or failed conservative treatment—we work closely with trusted surgical partners at both the local and university level. Our team can help expedite referrals and coordinate care to ensure timely and seamless access to surgical services.
In some cases, prehabilitation therapy may be recommended to strengthen the quadriceps and hamstrings before surgery, helping to support a smoother and faster post-operative recovery.
