Knee Pain

Understanding Knee Pain: Causes, Treatment & Relief in Athens, GA Living in a vibrant town like Athens, GA, means being on the move, whether you’re strolling through the University of Georgia campus, enjoying the trails at Sandy Creek Park, or attending a Dawgs game. But when knee pain strikes, even these everyday pleasures can become difficult. At AHCSPC, we understand how frustrating and limiting knee pain can be. That’s why we’re committed to helping our Athens community find lasting relief through expert diagnosis and effective, non-invasive treatments. This guide will help you understand the causes of knee pain, treatment options, and when it’s time to see a specialist, right here in your neighborhood. What Causes Knee Pain? Knee pain is incredibly common and can affect anyone, whether young athletes, middle-aged workers, or older adults. Understanding the root cause of your discomfort is the first step to lasting relief.1. OsteoarthritisThe most common reason for knee pain, especially among adults over 50. It’s caused by the breakdown of cartilage, which acts as a cushion between your bones. 2. Ligament InjuriesLigament Injuries are frequent in sports and falls. These injuries can cause instability, swelling, and long-term joint issues if untreated. 3. Meniscus TearsThe meniscus is the cartilage that acts as a shock absorber. A tear, often caused by twisting or lifting, can lead to locking or catching in the knee. 4. Tendonitis or BursitisOveruse or repetitive movements (common in running or construction work) can cause inflammation of the tendons. 5. Patellofemoral Pain SyndromeAlso known as “runner’s knee,” this condition results from muscle imbalances, poor alignment, or overuse. It causes dull pain behind the kneecap. 6. ObesityEvery extra pound of weight puts nearly 4 pounds of extra pressure on your knees. That adds up quickly and leads to faster joint wear. When Should You See a Knee Specialist in Athens? You don’t have to “wait it out” or rely on painkillers forever. Seek professional help if you experience: Pain that lasts more than a few days Swelling, redness, or warmth around the knee A popping or grinding sound when moving Difficulty bending or straightening your leg A feeling of weakness, buckling, or giving way Ignoring these signs could lead to further damage or chronic knee issues. At AHCSPC, we believe early diagnosis leads to faster and more complete recovery. Knee Pain Treatment Options in Athens, GA Our team at AHCSPC takes a personalized approach to treating knee pain. We consider your lifestyle, medical history, and pain level to build a plan that works for you. Most of our treatments are non-invasive or minimally invasive, meaning you can recover faster with fewer risks. 1. Physical TherapyOur trusted physical therapy partners in Athens guide you through strengthening and mobility exercises to restore function and relieve pain. This is often the first line of defense. 2. Injections Corticosteroid Injections help reduce inflammation and offer fast relief. Hyaluronic Acid Injections mimic natural joint fluid, ideal for osteoarthritis sufferers. 3. Weight Loss SupportWe help you create a manageable plan to shed pounds. Even losing 10 pounds can relieve 40 pounds of pressure from your knees. 4. Custom Knee BracingSupportive braces offload pressure from painful areas and help with stability. We offer professional fittings for maximum comfort. 5. Minimally Invasive ProceduresIf conservative methods don’t work, we may recommend arthroscopic surgery, where small instruments and cameras are used to repair internal damage with minimal downtime. How AHCSPC Stands Out in Athens, GA Not all clinics are the same. Here’s why patients in Athens trust AHCSPC for non-surgical knee pain treatment: Local ExperienceWe know the specific lifestyle demands and environmental factors of Athens residents. Whether you’re walking on campus or dancing at AthFest, your care plan is built around how you live. Collaborative TeamOur board-certified specialists collaborate with therapists, nutritionists, and other experts to give you whole-body care. Personalized CareWe don’t give one-size-fits-all treatments. Every patient receives customized care for their exact diagnosis and goals. Insurance-FriendlyWe work with Medicare, Medicaid, and most commercial plans, and can help verify your benefits. Preventing Knee Pain Before It Starts Here are a few simple habits that go a long way: Stretch before activity to loosen joints and improve circulation Wear good shoes with proper arch and heel support Avoid sitting too long, get up and move every 30–60 minutes Alternate activities, don’t overdo high-impact exercises like running Use proper technique when lifting or bending Your Next Step: Schedule an Appointment in Athens Today Knee pain doesn’t have to control your life. Whether you’re struggling with an old sports injury, arthritis, or everyday wear-and-tear, we’re here to help. 📞 Call us today or book your appointment online to meet with one of our specialists. Let AHCSPC be your partner on the journey to pain-free living, right here in Athens, GA. Sources: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/knee-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20350849 https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/exercise-physical-activity

Understanding Degenerative Joint Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis Degenerative joint disease (DJD), most commonly known as osteoarthritis, is a chronic condition that affects millions of people worldwide. As the most prevalent form of arthritis, it primarily involves the gradual breakdown of cartilage—the flexible tissue that cushions joints—leading to pain, stiffness, and limited movement. This disease can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, particularly in older adults, as it is most common with aging. In this blog, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and methods for diagnosing degenerative joint disease, providing a deeper understanding of this debilitating condition. Who can be affected by Degenerative Joint Disease? Degenerative Joint Disease or Osteoarthritis affects about 27 million Americans, with the risk increasing as people age. Most individuals over 60 have some form of the condition, though the severity can vary greatly. While this disease is more common in older adults, younger individuals in their 20s and 30s can also be affected by it. Generally, women over the age of 50 are more likely to experience osteoarthritis than men. What Causes Degenerative Joint Disease? The exact cause of degenerative joint disease is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, mechanical, and environmental factors. Several risk factors contribute to the development and progression of Degenerative Joint Disease, including: 1. Age The most significant risk factor for the disease is age. The wear and tear on joints increases with time, making older adults more prone to cartilage breakdown. By the age of 65, a large portion of the population shows some evidence of osteoarthritis, whether symptomatic or not. 2. Genetics Heredity plays a role in DJD. If you have family members with osteoarthritis, you may be more likely to develop the condition yourself. Specific genetic markers have been associated with a predisposition to cartilage damage and joint deterioration. 3. Joint Injury Past injuries, such as fractures or ligament tears, can contribute to the early onset of degenerative joint disease. For example, athletes who suffer repeated trauma to their knees or ankles may develop DJD earlier in life due to accelerated wear and tear on their joints. 4. Obesity Excess weight puts additional stress on weight-bearing joints, such as the knees, hips, and spine. Over time, this extra pressure can cause faster cartilage breakdown and increase the likelihood of developing DJD. Obesity is also linked to inflammation, which can further contribute to joint damage. 5. Occupation and Repetitive Stress Certain jobs or activities that require repetitive motion, heavy lifting, or prolonged standing can lead to joint overuse. People whose work involves repetitive kneeling, bending, or heavy manual labor are more susceptible to the disease, especially in the knees and spine. 6. Bone and Joint Disorders Pre-existing conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or bone deformities can increase the risk of developing the disease. Joint malalignment or improper movement patterns may cause uneven stress on the cartilage, speeding up degeneration. Symptoms of Degenerative Joint Disease Degenerative joint disease is a progressive condition, meaning that symptoms usually develop gradually and worsen over time. While each individual’s experience may vary, some common symptoms include: Joint discomfort and soreness, especially during movement, is a common symptom.  Pain or stiffness can also occur after overuse or long periods of inactivity.  Bony growths may develop in the finger joints, particularly in the middle or end joints, which can sometimes be painful. Degenerative joint disease or Osteoarthritis does not typically cause symptoms like fever, weight loss, or anemia (low red blood cell count). If these issues occur in someone with Degenerative Joint Disease, they are likely due to another underlying condition unrelated to the disease itself. Diagnosis of Degenerative Joint Disease Early diagnosis of degenerative joint disease is key to managing symptoms and slowing its progression. Healthcare providers use several approaches to diagnose the disease, including medical history, physical examination, imaging tests, and sometimes laboratory tests. 1. Medical History The first step in diagnosing DJD involves a thorough review of the patient’s medical history. Doctors will inquire about the onset and progression of symptoms, previous injuries, family history of arthritis, and lifestyle factors such as occupation and physical activity levels. 2. Physical Examination During a physical exam, the doctor will assess the affected joint(s) for signs of tenderness, swelling, stiffness, and limited range of motion. They may also listen for crepitus and feel for joint deformities or enlargement. The physical examination can help identify the severity and specific location of joint damage. 3. Imaging Tests Imaging plays a crucial role in confirming a diagnosis of the disease. Commonly used imaging tests include: X-rays: X-rays are often the first imaging test ordered to evaluate joint damage. They can reveal the narrowing of the joint space, the presence of bone spurs, and changes in bone structure that indicate cartilage loss. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): In some cases, an MRI may be recommended to provide a more detailed view of the soft tissues surrounding the joint, including cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. This can be useful in detecting early cartilage damage that may not be visible on an X-ray. Conclusion Degenerative Joint Disease or Osteoarthritis is a complex condition that can greatly impact a person’s mobility and quality of life. Understanding its causes and symptoms is essential for early detection and effective treatment. With prompt diagnosis, lifestyle changes, medical interventions, and physical therapy, many individuals with DJD can maintain joint function and improve their quality of life. By staying informed and proactive, we can better manage this condition. For expert care and comprehensive treatment options, visit Athens Heart Center & Specialty Clinic.