Knee Pain
Knee pain affects people of all ages and activity levels. Identifying the source of your pain is the first step toward effective treatment and relief.
Understanding Knee Pain
The knee is the largest joint in the body and one of the most commonly injured. It’s a complex structure of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons that work together to provide stability and movement.
Knee pain can result from injuries, mechanical problems, arthritis, or other conditions. The location of your pain often provides valuable clues about the underlying cause. Dr. Hunter will perform a thorough evaluation to identify the source and recommend appropriate treatment.
Where Does It Hurt?
The location of your knee pain can help narrow down potential causes.
Front of Knee
Possible causes:
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome
- Patellar tendinitis
- Bursitis
- Arthritis
Inside of Knee (Medial)
Possible causes:
- MCL injury
- Medial meniscus tear
- Arthritis
- Pes anserine bursitis
Outside of Knee (Lateral)
Possible causes:
- LCL injury
- Lateral meniscus tear
- IT band syndrome
- Arthritis
Back of Knee
Possible causes:
- Baker's cyst
- Hamstring issues
- PCL injury
- Meniscal tear
Common Causes of Knee Pain
Arthritis
Wear and tear of cartilage causing pain, swelling, and stiffness
Ligament Injuries
ACL, MCL, LCL, or PCL tears from sports or trauma
Meniscal Tears
Damage to the shock-absorbing cartilage pads
Tendinitis
Inflammation from overuse, especially in athletes
Bursitis
Swelling of the fluid-filled sacs around the knee
Patellofemoral Pain
Pain around or behind the kneecap
When to Seek Immediate Care
- Severe pain or swelling after an injury
- Unable to bear weight on the leg
- Knee looks deformed or misaligned
- Knee locks or gives way repeatedly
- Signs of infection (fever, redness, warmth)
- Heard a "pop" during injury
Diagnosis
Dr. Hunter will evaluate your knee pain through:
- 1
Medical History
How and when the pain started, activities that worsen it
- 2
Physical Examination
Checking stability, range of motion, and specific tests
- 3
Imaging Studies
X-rays, MRI, or CT scans as needed
Treatment Options
Treatment is tailored to the specific cause of your knee pain.
Conservative Care
- • RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
- • Physical therapy
- • Medications and anti-inflammatories
- • Bracing or support
- • Injections (corticosteroids, viscosupplementation)
Surgical Options
- • Arthroscopic surgery
- • Meniscus repair or removal
- • Ligament reconstruction (ACL, etc.)
- • Partial or total knee replacement
Related Conditions
Get answers about your knee pain
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Hunter for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.