Hearing older adults complain about knee pain is nothing new. In fact, people nowadays seem to expect knee problems to develop as they age. However, our experts in pain management in Spring Hill remind patients that suffering from knee pain is detrimental to the overall well-being of a person. After all, the knees are crucial in mobility and physical independence.
A study published in a Rheumatology journal has revealed that approximately 50% of older adults who are 50 years and older suffer from knee pain. This figure accounts for both acute knee pain, which lasts for less than 3 months, and chronic knee pain, which lasts for 3 months and longer. Patients with knee pain are also at risk of suffering from fall-related injuries.
Getting to know the knees
The knees are not only the largest joints in the body; they are also the ones that bear the most weight and stress. Complex webs of bones, ligaments, muscles, cartilage, and tendons make up the knees. An injury to any of these structures may lead to knee irritation and pain.
3 Common Causes of Knee Pain in Older Adults
As we age, the integrity of our musculoskeletal organs gradually diminishes. Aside from acute disorders caused by injuries, years of wear and tear may result in chronic musculoskeletal disorders that can lead to pain and disability if not managed properly.
To raise awareness, our pain doctor in Spring Hill has outlined the following common causes of knee pain in older adults:
Prepatellar bursitis
Bursitis refers to the inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that lubricates and decreases friction between joints. Prepatellar bursitis, or bursitis of the kneecap, results from the build-up of pressure during prolonged kneeling. The pain associated with prepatellar bursitis is felt during physical activity that involves the knee. Tenderness and swelling are also evident around the kneecap.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting 27 million Americans, and the most prevalent cause of knee pain in older adults. It is a chronic musculoskeletal condition that is characterized by knee pain, tenderness, and joint stiffness. Osteoarthritis develops as a result of chronic degeneration of the cartilage that acts as a cushion between the joints, making the bone ends rub against each other.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Also known as jumper’s knee or runner’s knee, this condition leads to pain around the kneecap and joint stiffness that can limit a patient’s ability to perform daily activities. An overuse injury is the usual cause of patellofemoral pain syndrome.
If you are suffering from knee pain, or if you know someone who does, don’t just suffer through it and wait for the pain to go away. Consult our pain doctor in Spring Hill for the best course of treatment.
Manage knee pain with the help of experts in pain management in Spring Hill
Pain Management & Spine Care’s Medical Director, Dr. Eyad Alsabbagh, is a fellowship-trained Interventional Pain Medicine pain doctor in Hernando County. He is trained and educated to provide the highest quality of service to patients suffering from multiple conditions, varying from narcotic addiction to back pain. He utilizes state-of-the-art technology at his pain management clinic.
Dr. Alsabbagh of Brooksville Pain Management, Spring Hill Clinic understands that pain is a very personal experience. This is why he evaluates each patient’s individual needs and determines what sort of treatment will be most beneficial for that particular person. Our goal is to help you ensure a fuller, pain-free life.
If you have further questions about nerve blocks or anything related to pain management, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment or to contact us.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.