Persistent Pain in the Inner Right Knee: Seeking Medical Advice - Orthopedics

More Info

---

Persistent pain in the inner right knee can be a frustrating and debilitating condition, especially when it interferes with daily activities and sports. Based on your description, it seems that you have been experiencing this pain for several years following a basketball injury. The fact that you can walk normally but experience pain when squatting or running suggests that there may be underlying issues that need to be addressed.

First and foremost, it is essential to understand the potential causes of your knee pain. Given the history of trauma, possible conditions could include:
1. Meniscal Injury: The meniscus is a cartilage structure in the knee that can be torn during activities that involve twisting or heavy impact. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, and difficulty with certain movements, such as squatting or running.

2. Ligament Injuries: Injuries to the ligaments, such as the medial collateral ligament (MCL) or anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), can also lead to pain on the inner side of the knee. These injuries can occur during sports and may not always be immediately apparent.

3. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: This condition is characterized by pain around the kneecap and can be exacerbated by activities like squatting or running. It often results from muscle imbalances or improper tracking of the kneecap.

4. Osteoarthritis: Although you are relatively young, repetitive stress on the knee joint can lead to early signs of osteoarthritis, which can cause pain and stiffness.

5. Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint) can also lead to localized pain.

Given that you have already sought treatment through traditional Chinese medicine and anti-inflammatory medications without significant improvement, it may be time to consider further evaluation. Here are some recommendations:
1. Consult an Orthopedic Specialist: An orthopedic doctor can perform a thorough examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as an MRI, to assess the soft tissues in your knee. This can help identify any tears or other injuries that may not be visible on X-rays.

2. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can develop a tailored rehabilitation program to strengthen the muscles around your knee, improve flexibility, and enhance your overall function. This can be particularly beneficial if muscle imbalances are contributing to your pain.

3. Activity Modification: While it’s important to stay active, you may need to modify your activities to avoid exacerbating your knee pain. Low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, can help maintain fitness without putting excessive strain on the knee.

4. Injections: If conservative treatments fail, your doctor may consider corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation or hyaluronic acid injections to lubricate the joint.

5. Surgical Options: If conservative measures do not provide relief and significant structural damage is identified, surgical options may be considered, such as arthroscopy to repair any meniscal tears or ligament injuries.

6. Pain Management: In addition to anti-inflammatory medications, other pain management strategies, such as ice therapy, elevation, and the use of knee braces, can help alleviate symptoms.

In conclusion, persistent knee pain warrants a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment. It is crucial to work closely with healthcare professionals to identify the underlying cause of your pain and develop an effective treatment plan. Early intervention can often lead to better outcomes and a quicker return to your desired activities. Please do not hesitate to seek further medical advice to ensure your knee health is properly managed.