If you are experiencing knee pain and don’t know where to start looking for help, then you have come to the right place! Knee pain can be caused by many different things, from mild sprain or strain to something more serious like torn cartilage. To diagnose (and treat) what is causing your particular knee troubles, you must seek out the advice and treatment of the correct physician.
In this blog post, we will discuss which doctor you should go to if you have knee pain to make sure your diagnosis is correct and your treatment is successful. So, keep reading to learn about who can best help treat your knee pain, as well as treatment options for knee pain.
Understanding Different Types of Doctors Who Treat Knee Pain
Knee pain can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, making it essential to consult the right medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
The realm of healthcare has various types of doctors specializing in different aspects of knee pain management. Orthopedic surgeons are experienced in surgically correcting musculoskeletal disorders, including knee injuries and joint issues. Rheumatologists offer their expertise in treating inflammation of the knee joint, which typically occurs due to autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis.
For sports-related injuries, one can turn to a sports medicine physician specializing in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of injuries related to physical activity. In some cases, a physical therapist may be recommended for individuals seeking non-surgical treatments like physical therapy or bracing.
By understanding these medical specialists’ roles, patients experiencing knee pain can make informed decisions about their treatment options and strive toward a path of recovery.
Primary Care Physician
A primary care doctor can diagnose common knee pain and devise a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This may include recommending exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee, prescribing suitable medications for pain management, and guiding you through lifestyle modifications to prevent further injury. However, for more complicated knee conditions or cases in which the cause of the pain isn’t clear, they may refer patients out to a sports medicine specialist, orthopedic surgeon, rheumatologist, or physical therapist.
Sports Medicine Specialist
When discomfort progresses to more serious levels, it becomes crucial to consult with a sports medicine specialist. These experts have comprehensive knowledge and training in diagnosing and treating various injuries, even injuries not related to playing sports. By seeking their professional guidance, you can uncover the underlying cause of your pain, receive targeted treatment plans, and ultimately achieve much-needed relief.
Orthopedic Surgeon
Orthopedic surgeons are crucial for tackling very serious knee pain that arises from traumatic injuries or severe wear and tear. These specialized physicians have unparalleled expertise in diagnosing, treating, and even preventing musculoskeletal problems. Orthopedic surgeons train in a specific kind of surgery, so there are orthopedic surgeons with training specifically in comprehensive care for the knee joint. By implementing cutting-edge techniques and technologies, orthopedic surgeons meticulously address and surgically correct the root triggers of severe pain to restore your joint’s mobility and improve your overall quality of life.
Rheumatologist
Chronic and autoimmune knee pain can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, often leading to mobility limitations and constant discomfort. Rheumatologists are medical specialists skilled in diagnosing and managing complex musculoskeletal conditions and systemic autoimmune disorders. Consulting a rheumatologist can be the key to successfully managing or even curing chronic pain.
Physical Therapist
Physical therapy is an effective treatment for people who have a knee strain or sprain that can be treated without surgery because knees heal faster. In addition, physical therapy also helps reduce pain and improve mobility after joint replacement surgery. A skilled physical therapist will develop a personalized treatment plan that typically includes a combination of exercises, stretches, and other therapeutic modalities, such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation.
Knee Pain Doctor Near Me
All in all, if you are having knee pain and need the care of an orthopedic surgeon or physical therapist, North Country Orthopedic Group can help! Be sure to call us at (315) 782-1650 to schedule an office visit so that one of our experts can assess your case and provide you with the guidance and care you need to achieve relief. Additionally, you can schedule an appointment by using our appointment request form here. We look forward to serving you!
