8 Myths and Facts About Knee Pain That You Should Know
Mar 21, 2022
Chances are, you know or have known someone that has experienced knee pain. This common issue can happen for various reasons and affects individuals of all ages.
Because it is so common, there tends to be a lot of misinformation about the causes and treatments of knee pain. Below, we explore some of the most common myths people believe about knee pain and counter them with facts.
Myth 1: Knee Pain Only Occurs from an Injury
Fact: There are many causes of knee pain in addition to a sports injury or a sudden, direct force. Some other common causes of knee pain are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, kneecap problems, Baker’s cysts, and tendonitis.
Myth 2: Knee Pain Is Inevitable as You Age
Fact: As we grow older, we become more susceptible to conditions related to knee pain. However, aging is not what causes pain. You are more likely to experience knee pain if you gain weight, have arthritis, or develop osteoporosis. In addition, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in increasing your joint life.
Myth 3: You Should Not Exercise If You Have Knee Pain
Fact: Exercise can actually help people who experience knee pain. Low-impact activities can reduce stiffness and pain, improve knee function, and build muscle strength. Walking, stretching, and swimming are all great ways to keep your knee joints active.
Myth 4: Steroid Injections Will Heal Knee Pain
Fact: While steroid injections will provide short-term relief, they will not cure your knee pain. Multiple steroid injections can weaken the tissue in your knee, causing more problems.
Myth 5: If You Suffer from a Ligament or Meniscus Tear, You Will Need Surgery
Fact: Surgery is not always the solution to a ligament or meniscus tear. Surgery is usually only suggested for professional athletes or individuals experiencing a locked joint. Specialists can typically treat a ligament or meniscus tear with physical therapy. Physical therapy will strengthen the knee and restore function.
Myth 6: NSAIDs Are the Best Treatment for Knee Pain
Fact: Anti-inflammatory medications can reduce the pain you feel in your knee. However, they will not treat the problem. Masking the pain with these medicines for too long can cause more injury to the knee. They can also have an adverse effect on your liver and kidney function.
Myth 7: Surgery Is the Only Way to Cure Knee Pain
Fact: If you have suffered from a traumatic knee injury, surgery might be necessary. However, other, less invasive treatments can help with joint pain. Physical therapy and regenerative medicine are viable options to eliminate knee pain.
Myth 8: Changing Your Diet Can Help Manage Knee Pain
Fact: Changing your diet alone will not help reduce knee pain, although losing weight may improve your knee pain. Most of the time, the problem requires additional lifestyle changes beyond diet.
Kentucky Joint Specialists can help with your knee pain in Louisville, KY. Consult with one of our specialists today by calling 502-771-5432.