Patients that suffer from knee pain may struggle to perform their daily activities or even get from one place to another. As a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Dominique Nickson offers diagnosis and treatment to patients struggling with knee pain in McKinney, Texas and surrounding areas including Frisco, Allen, Plano and Prosper, Texas. Patients interested in these services should contact Next Step Orthopedics.

What causes knee pain?

The knee is a complex joint composed of bone, tendons, cartilage, and muscle. When any of these components becomes damaged or inflamed, knee pain can occur. Some of the most common causes of knee pain include:

  • Patellar tendon tear – The patellar tendon connects the kneecap to the rest of the leg. When this tendon tears, it can cause discomfort and problems with mobility.
  • Meniscus tear – The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that cushions the knee. Certain types of trauma can cause this cartilage to tear, leading to uncomfortable symptoms.
  • Bursitis – The bursa in the knee joint is a small, fluid-filled sack responsible for reducing friction with movement. Bursitis occurs when the bursa becomes inflamed.
  • ACL tear – The anterior cruciate ligament is responsible for keeping the knee stable during certain movements. Trauma to the ACL can lead to a painful tear.
  • Fracture – A fracture occurs when a bone in the knee breaks.
  • Arthritis – Arthritis is a progressive inflammatory condition that can affect any joint, including the knee.

How does Dr. Nickson diagnose the cause of knee pain?

Dr. Nickson recognizes that knee pain can have many different causes. When a patient comes into Next Step Orthopedics with this condition, he will begin by performing a thorough examination of the knee and collecting detailed information about the patient’s symptoms. He may also order imaging tests, such as X-rays, ultrasounds, or MRIs, to visualize the inside of the knee. Once he has determined the cause of the patient’s knee pain, he can recommend various treatment options.

What treatments are available?

A variety of treatments may improve a patient’s knee pain. The exact treatment options Dr. Nickson recommends will depend on the cause of the pain. For example, some types of knee pain may require only rest, ice, and/or physical therapy. Other types of knee pain, such as pain caused by arthritis, may benefit from certain oral medications. In cases where the tendons or ligaments are damaged, Dr. Nickson may recommend minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery.

In many cases, patients will have more than one treatment option. Dr. Nickson will explain each option in detail so that patients can make the choice that’s right for them.