Decoding Your Knee Pain: Why It Happens and When to Seek Help in Belagavi

The High Price of an Active Life Our knees are incredible joints, carrying us through thousands of steps every single day. But whether from an injury, the natural process of aging, or an underlying condition, knee pain is one of the most common complaints that can severely impact your quality of life. Many people in Belagavi try to "power through" the pain, but ignoring it can often lead to more serious damage. At CentraCare Hospital, our Department of Orthopedics is dedicated to diagnosing the root cause of your knee pain and creating a personalized plan to get you moving again, pain-free. Common Causes of Knee Pain Understanding the source of your pain is the first step toward finding relief. The most common culprits include: Osteoarthritis: This is the "wear-and-tear" type of arthritis, where the protective cartilage in the knee joint gradually wears down. It often results in pain, stiffness (especially in the morning), and a grinding sensation. Ligament Injuries: A sudden twist or impact can injure the ligaments that stabilize your knee. An ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) tear is a common and serious sports injury. Meniscus Tears: The meniscus is a piece of tough cartilage that acts as a shock absorber. A forceful twist can tear it, causing pain, swelling, and a "locking" sensation in the knee. Tendonitis: This is an inflammation of the tendons surrounding the knee, often caused by overuse from activities like running or jumping. When Should You See an Orthopedic Doctor? While minor aches can be managed with rest and ice, you should schedule a consultation with an orthopedic specialist if you experience any of the following: Persistent Pain: The pain lasts for more than a week or gets progressively worse. Noticeable Swelling or Redness: These are clear signs of inflammation or a significant injury. Instability: You feel like your knee is wobbly or might "give out" when you put weight on it. A "Popping" Sound: A distinct pop at the time of injury often indicates a ligament tear. Inability to Bear Weight: If it's too painful to stand or walk, you need an immediate evaluation. Advanced Orthopedic Care at CentraCare Our orthopedic team uses advanced diagnostic tools to get a precise picture of your knee joint. From there, we offer a complete spectrum of care, from conservative treatments like physiotherapy and injections to advanced surgical options, including arthroscopic surgery and total knee replacement. Don't let knee pain dictate how you live your life.