Specialized Treatment For Your Knee Pain
Our trusted New Jersey knee pain doctor from Northeast Spine & Wellness Center knows that many people who suffer from knee pain think that it is just a symptom of growing old. Or, perhaps they injured their knee while working out or being particularly active but the pain never went away. While many people may believe that knee pain is simply a part of life, our physicians know that there are many different treatment options that can help you that don’t involve large doses of medication or surgery.
Knee pain can be either chronic or acute and it can leave you feeling unable to perform routine tasks or fun hobbies. We discuss knee pain and how we can help treat your discomfort. You should not feel that you have to live with this. Contact Northeast Spine & Wellness Center today if you would like to schedule an appointment to speak with our doctor New Jersey patients trust for quality care.
Table of Contents
- Specialized Treatment For Your Knee Pain
- What Our Knee Pain Doctor Can Do For You
- When To See A Knee Pain Doctor
- New Jersey Knee Pain Infographic
- New Jersey Knee Pain Statistics
- New Jersey Knee Pain FAQs
- New Jersey Knee Pain Glossary
- Northeast Spine & Wellness Center, New Jersey Knee Pain Doctor
- Contact Our New Jersey Knee Pain Doctor Today
Visiting Our Office
The first step to healing your knee is coming to see us. We know that it can be daunting to see doctors because you may feel that they are going to tell you the only options are expensive surgeries or heavy doses of medication. However, we encourage you to visit us to see how reliably our team can treat you. When you schedule your initial consultation, we will want to know:
- When the pain began,
- If it is always present or made worse by certain activities,
- If it was caused by sudden trauma, and
- Your weight, age, and other health factors.
Acute Knee Injuries
Acute knee injuries, also known as sudden knee injuries, happen abruptly and are caused by twisting, falling, or a blow to the knee. Some knee injuries you would likely see are:
- Knee cap dislocation
- Ligament tears
- Meniscus tears
- Sprains or strains
- Fractures
Overuse Injuries
Our healthcare provider may also check to see if this is an overuse injury. This is a common problem among athletes, especially those who run, jog, bike, or climb on a regular basis. These kinds of activities stress your knee joints regularly and can cause severe inflammation and irritation in the tissues surrounding the knee.
What Our Knee Pain Doctor Can Do for You
Knee pain affects millions of Americans, and reaching out to our New Jersey knee pain doctor might be your best chance of recovery. Not many people realize how fragile knees can be – until something goes wrong and they seek treatment. Despite all the hard use our knees go through, they’re susceptible to injury, and oftentimes need medical attention and treatment before we’re able to get back up and running.
While there are many possible knee injuries, some are more common than others. Certain trauma warrants extra attention, and others require invasive medical procedures. Knee injures come in all shapes and sizes:
- ACL injuries: The ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) is a ligament that connects your shinbone to your femur (your thighbone). If this ligament is torn, you could be faced with a painful and lengthy recovery process. ACL injuries are common in sports, but it’s possible to experience an ACL injury through other activities as well.
- Dislocated kneecaps: Your patella (kneecap) actually sits in front of your knee joint. It stays in a groove between other bones, but in the event of a sudden impact, it can pop out of the groove and possibly damage tissues or tendons nearby. A dislocated kneecap is a serious injury, and while it may just “pop” back into place, a full recovery can take several weeks. Fortunately, our wellness center can help.
- Knee bursitis: You might not be aware of this, but your knee actually has several fluid-filled sacs to reduce friction in the joint. These sacs are meant to ease the stresses of movement, but they’re only beneficial to a certain point: When these sacs become inflamed, you can experience a limited range of motion, and (of course) pain.
- Loose body: In some cases, parts of cartilage or bone can be rubbed or chipped free inside your knee, causing pain and difficulty walking. Your knee is a finely-tuned machine, and having a loose piece of bone caught up in the middle of everything can be seriously painful, and seriously dangerous.
Knee pain can lead to serious health problems if left unmanaged, and without proper care and recovery you might find yourself struggling to do the everyday tasks you used to carry out before your injury and developed. It may seem like a daunting task to get medical care, but it’s important to have your knee examined by our doctor who is as committed to your recovery as you are.
At Northeast Spine & Wellness Center, we’re prepared to help you recover from your knee injury. Whether your knee injury and knee pain was caused by an ACL injury, a dislocated kneecap, bursitis, loose body, or anything else that can cause knee pain, we can work with you to develop a personalized recovery plan.
Don’t let pain control your life. Our specialists are standing by to help you finally move on from your knee pain, whether it started recently, or has been a chronic issue for years. Reach out to our care team today to discover your recovery options.
No Medication
As we can tell you during an appointment, medications have all sorts of side effects that can cause additional issues to those you might already be experiencing. Chiropractic work does not involve medication, and chiropractors aren’t even licensed to prescribe it. If there’s a drug-free solution to the health-related issue you’re experiencing, are you more inclined to give it a try? Many people are, which is why chiropractic care is growing among patients with varying problems. Without medication involved, patients are also less likely to develop a dependency on a substance that is really just masking the root of the problem.
Non-Invasive Procedures
Receiving chiropractic adjustments is a non-invasive way to treat various medical problems. Rather than undergoing knee surgery and having to deal with recovery on top of the initial procedure, you would simply go in for an adjustment or a series of adjustments. This lessens the chance of blood clots, something going wrong during surgery, and other side effects.
Gentle Movements
Take everything negative you’ve imagined about going to the chiropractor and push it out of your mind. When you have chiropractic adjustments, the movements are gentle. Our doctors went through years of education and training to know exactly which joints and vertebrae to move in which direction. After an adjustment, many patients feel immediate relief. If you don’t feel relief directly following your adjustment, chances are the relief will come within a day or two, or after you have had a series of adjustments for a more serious issue.
Trained Professionals
As long as you are receiving your adjustment from our trained professional, you can rest assured we will be doing the right adjustment on the right vertebrae in the right direction. The same cannot be said for having your friend or your family member crack your back. It’s important you keep this in mind, as trained professionals provide care that is safe.
When To See A Knee Pain Doctor
It might be time to visit our clinic if you have pain that hasn’t been resolved within a day or two. Typically a knee injury just needs some rest and ice but when there is more to an injury it might be time to see a doctor. Many people, like athletes, will experience some kind of knee pain from time to time.
However, there are some serious clues that indicate more serious injuries that need to be seen by our doctor. Here are the signs that you need to watch out for:
- Pain for More Than 48 Hours
If you have pain in your knee joint that prevents you from walking normally for more than 48 hours then you should get it checked by our healthcare provider. Some of the causes of pain deep within the joint include abnormalities of the meniscus or cartilage.
The meniscus is the shock absorber of the knee. It consists of articular cartilage that covers the ends of the leg bones to allow for smooth flexion and extension of the knee. When this is damaged or if there is an abnormality it can limit the range of motion of the joint but also cause deep knee pain.
If your knee is popping it may feel as if your knee is locked in place when you try to move it. If this is the case then you need to see our doctor.
- Swelling That’s Worsening After 48 Hours
The first thing that typically happens after an acute injury is swelling around the site of injury. When the knee is injured it can swell as a result of inflammation or possibly bleeding into the knee joint. This swelling can cause pain and loss of motion.
Swelling is usually obvious and can be seen. Typically the swelling peaks around 24 to 48 hours after an injury. If the swelling is getting worse after 48 hours you should seek medical attention. If it stays after 48 hours then you should also seek medical attention.
Swelling can also lead to pain and stiffness in your joints. It may lead to a clicking sound as the tendons snap over one another after having been pushed into new positions from the swelling. If this continues then seek medical attention.
- Instability or Reduced Range of Motion
If you have a limited range of motion that does not begin to improve within a few days, you should see your healthcare provider.
Instability in the knee joint or the sensation that the knee is bending or moving in the wrong direction can be a ligament injury. When this happens it means the ligaments aren’t providing the stability and support that they normally do. If your nee has this feeling them often it means you should see a medical professional before you fall or it gets worse.
New Jersey Knee Pain Infographic
New Jersey Knee Pain Statistics
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 25% of adults in the U.S. report experiencing knee pain at some point in their lives. This statistic highlights the widespread nature of knee pain and its impact on the population.
Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most prevalent causes of knee pain. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) reports that nearly 1 in 2 people will develop knee osteoarthritis by age 85. This condition leads to the breakdown of cartilage in the knee joint, causing pain, stiffness, and limited movement.
A study published in Arthritis Care & Research found that individuals with knee pain are more likely to experience reduced physical function. Knee pain is a leading cause of disability among older adults. The long-term effects can severely hinder a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks, such as walking or climbing stairs.
New Jersey Knee Pain FAQs
What Are The Different Causes Of Knee Pain?
We understand that there are many different causes of knee pain and our doctor has seen both acute and chronic injuries. If you have an acute injury, it means that something happened to suddenly cause your knee injury, like slipping and falling or being in a car accident. If you have a chronic knee injury, it means that you have a returning injury that may be due to age, weight, or other conditions.
What Are Risk Factors For Knee Pain I Should Know?
Knowing risk factors can really help you. Knee pain is a very common complaint among athletes, no matter ability, or age, or sport. Impact sports such as running, football, basketball, soccer and dance can cause it to be more common, but knee pain is seen in every sport. This pain can be brought on by factors like jumping, pivoting, overuse, improper alignment of the foot, ankle, knee, or hip. Furthermore the strength you have in your knees and legs can affect your knee pain, as can your range of motion. If you have lateral hip weakness, tight hip flexors, or shortened hamstrings, you’re going to have abnormal strain on your knees. Obesity, and having physically demanding jobs are other factors to know about.
Is Knee Pain Serious?
Knee pain can be serious, but it is normal to have aches and pains in your knees because they receive so much force, even when you’re just walking. However, knee pain can come from many different angles as it is a very versatile joint. That means, if you feel that your knee pain is only getting worse, even if it comes and goes, you should seek out help. You could have a minor injury that will become more serious without help.
Can Chiropractors Help With My Knee Pain?
Absolutely! In many instances, chiropractic techniques like adjustments can help to reduce inflammation and muscle tension. Other chiropractic techniques, like massages, can help your blood circulate and promote healing in the injured area.
Can My Knee Pain Be From Osteoarthritis?
Whether you are dealing with EDS or not, over 95% of knee pain is estimated to be caused by arthritis, such as osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is one of the most common types of arthritis because it is caused by wear and tear in the joint; essentially, it means you’ve lived your life and you’ve used your joints and how they hurt. Osteoarthritis is much more common than rheumatoid arthritis, and you should talk to your medical provider about the possibility that you have osteoarthritis and how you should treat it.
What Type Of Injuries Cause Knee Pain?
Often knee pain is caused by injuries that are twisting, such as the ACL, meniscus or ligament injuries. This is not the only type of way to get knee pain but it is the most common and it is what our doctor may look for first. You should talk to our specialist if you have any questions or think that you have a twisted knee injury.
Why Does Knee Pain Occur?
Knee pain is a common ailment among adults and can have many different causes. In many cases, knee pain can result from poor form during exercise, incorrect lifting techniques and inadequate stretching. Other causes of knee pain include arthritis, bursitis, torn ligaments and tendinitis.
Do I Need Surgery for Knee Pain?
Many people assume that surgery is the only way to cure chronic knee pain. However, that’s not the case. Surgery should only be used as a last resort. There are many non-surgical methods that may improve your knee pain, such as a spinal adjustment, trigger point therapy, nutritional counseling and posture adjustment. It’s important to try these methods before considering going under the knife.
Can I Do Anything at Home to Alleviate Knee Pain?
Absolutely. In order to see an improvement in your knee pain, it is important to play an active role in your recovery. For example, keep your knee elevated to reduce swelling and apply ice to the area. When you sleep, place a pillow between your knees to relieve pressure.
Can Knee Pain Ever Go Away On Its Own?
Yes, it is possible. If you have sustained a minor injury and take it easy, your knee pain may resolve itself pretty quickly. On the other hand, if your knee pain has lasted more than a few weeks, it may be due to an underlying condition, like arthritis. In this situation, it’s important to see a healthcare professional soon.
When Should I Seek Medical Help for Knee Pain?
It is never too soon to try to get pain relief for your knees. Even if you cannot get back to normal right away, there are things that a doctor can do to help you feel better quickly, then gradually progress. It is never too early to seek help for pain problems. You should be able to go on living your life with minimal interruptions from your knee pain. That is what our knee pain doctors will do their best to achieve. There may be a very simple fix, or we may refer you elsewhere to someone if we believe you may need surgery or any kind of more serious intervention. You will never know how to help manage your pain if you do not seek help first.
New Jersey Knee Pain Glossary
Our knee pain specialist can help individuals recover from injuries caused by workplace accidents, car crashes, or other incidents that lead to long-term knee pain. If you are experiencing ongoing knee discomfort, it is important to understand the legal and medical aspects that may impact your case.
Medical Documentation And Treatment Records
When pursuing legal action or filing for workers’ compensation, medical documentation plays a significant role. This refers to the records maintained by healthcare providers detailing the nature of the injury, treatment received, and prognosis. Proper medical records can serve as evidence in cases where compensation for medical expenses and lost wages is sought. Our doctor will document:
- The initial diagnosis and imaging results
- Prescribed treatments, such as physical therapy or bracing
- The patient’s progress and any ongoing limitations
These records are often required when filing for workers’ compensation or other claims related to knee injuries. Without clear documentation, proving the extent of an injury and its impact on daily life can be challenging.
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) Rating
For individuals who experience lasting limitations from a knee injury, a Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) rating may be assigned by our medical professional. This rating quantifies the degree of impairment and can impact workers’ compensation settlements. If the injury prevents a person from returning to their previous work duties, the PPD rating may determine additional benefits.
Patients experiencing chronic knee pain or reduced mobility should discuss the possibility of obtaining a PPD evaluation with their treating physician. The results of this assessment could influence a legal claim for continued medical care and wage replacement benefits.
Independent Medical Examination (IME)
An Independent Medical Examination (IME) is often requested by insurance companies when reviewing an injury claim. This examination is performed by a third-party physician who assesses whether the injury is consistent with the claim and whether additional treatment is necessary. An IME can impact:
- Workers’ compensation benefits if an employer disputes the severity of an injury
- Insurance payouts for medical care and lost wages
- Personal injury claims if there is disagreement over the injury’s cause
For those seeking treatment, it is important to understand that an IME may impact legal proceedings. The findings of an IME can be used to challenge a patient’s diagnosis or ongoing treatment plan, so it is advisable to have detailed medical records from the treating physician.
Functional Impairment And Disability Ratings
A Functional Capacity Evaluation (FCE) is a test that assesses an injured person’s ability to perform work-related tasks. Individuals with knee pain may undergo an FCE to determine their ability to stand, walk, lift, or perform repetitive motions. This evaluation assesses:
- Range of motion limitations
- Pain levels affecting daily activities
- Whether the condition is temporary or permanent
If a knee injury leads to long-term restrictions, a disability rating may be assigned. This rating impacts benefits available under workers’ compensation or long-term disability insurance claims.
Medical Treatment Disputes And Insurance Denials
Patients seeking treatment for knee injuries may encounter insurance denials based on whether a procedure is deemed medically necessary. Common reasons for denials include:
- The insurer claims the injury was pre-existing
- Treatment recommendations, such as physical therapy or injections, are considered experimental
- The insurer disputes the severity of the injury
Our knee pain doctors can provide supporting medical evidence to challenge these denials and advocate for appropriate treatment coverage. Patients should maintain all correspondence with their healthcare provider and insurer to appeal unfavorable decisions.
Northeast Spine & Wellness Center, New Jersey Knee Pain Doctor
1043 Raritan Rd, Clark, NJ 07066
Contact Our New Jersey Knee Pain Doctor Today
Schedule an appointment with our knee pain doctor in New Jersey as soon as possible. Our doctor can evaluate you to determine the best steps to move forward. Reach out to our office today to see how you can get started. We will be happy to set up a consultation with you to go over all of your symptoms and complaints, then create a plan on what to do next. It may take some time to figure out the right treatment plan for you, but the sooner you get started the sooner you will be able to begin feeling relief from your knee pain.
Client Review
“The staff goes above and beyond to all the patients. Professionalism at its best. If you are experiencing any pain issues-make a call-get an appointment-and get your life back!!! This place is THE BEST!!!”
Mariann Brenner
