Knee and Hip Pain: Causes and Treatment Options

Knee and hip joint pain?

Hello, doctor.
For the past two years, I've been experiencing a dull pain in my knees whenever the weather turns cold, and this year it has become more severe.
If I kick the blanket at night or if the weather gets cold the next day, I experience pain even after walking for one or two hours.
Recently, I've also started to feel pain in my hip joints, affecting both legs.
When the pain occurs, I can hear a grinding sound in the joints while walking.
I'm not sure what the cause is or how to manage it.
If I need to see a doctor, which specialty should I consult? Thank you for your assistance.

lemon, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/11/14

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

Joint exposure to cold can indeed cause pain, but if this occurs frequently, it is considered abnormal.
Many conditions can lead to knee joint pain, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatism, rheumatoid arthritis, synovitis, or chondromalacia patellae.
Joint pain may also radiate to adjacent joints, so it is advisable to consult an orthopedic specialist for further examination and testing.

Reply Date: 2000/11/14

More Info

Understanding knee and hip pain, especially when it becomes more pronounced with changes in weather or after physical activity, can be quite complex. Your symptoms suggest a potential underlying issue that may involve both the knee and hip joints, possibly linked to conditions such as osteoarthritis, tendinitis, or even issues related to the surrounding muscles and ligaments.

Causes of Knee and Hip Pain
1. Osteoarthritis: This is one of the most common causes of joint pain, particularly in older adults. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints wears down over time. Symptoms often include pain, stiffness, and a grating sensation during movement, which aligns with your description of a "friction" sound when walking.

2. Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the knee or hip can also lead to pain, especially after physical activity. This condition can be exacerbated by repetitive movements or overuse.

3. Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints) can cause pain in the hip and knee, particularly when moving or after prolonged periods of inactivity.

4. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: This condition, often referred to as "runner's knee," can cause pain around the kneecap and is usually aggravated by activities such as walking, running, or climbing stairs.

5. Referred Pain: Sometimes, pain in the knee can be referred from issues in the hip or lower back, such as a herniated disc or sciatica.

Treatment Options
1. Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing activities that exacerbate the pain can help. If walking for extended periods causes discomfort, consider shorter walks or low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling.

2. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can develop a tailored exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the knee and hip, improve flexibility, and enhance overall joint function. They may also use modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation to alleviate pain.

3. Medications: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation. However, be cautious with long-term use, as it can lead to gastrointestinal issues.

4. Injections: Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief from inflammation in the knee or hip joints. Hyaluronic acid injections may also be considered for osteoarthritis.

5. Surgery: In severe cases where conservative treatments fail, surgical options such as arthroscopy or joint replacement may be necessary.

When to See a Doctor
Given your symptoms, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. You may want to start with a primary care physician who can evaluate your condition and refer you to a specialist if necessary. An orthopedic surgeon or a rheumatologist would be appropriate for joint-related issues. They can perform a physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, to determine the exact cause of your pain.

Conclusion
In summary, the pain you're experiencing in your knees and hips could be due to a variety of factors, including osteoarthritis, tendinitis, or bursitis. It's essential to address these symptoms early to prevent further deterioration of your joint health. A combination of rest, physical therapy, and appropriate medical treatment can significantly improve your quality of life and mobility. Don't hesitate to seek medical advice to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.

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