Choosing Between Orthopedics and Neurosurgery for Knee Pain - Orthopedics

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When it comes to knee pain, particularly in a 57-year-old patient like your mother, it is essential to understand the underlying causes and the appropriate specialists to consult. Given the symptoms you've described, including persistent pain during activities such as walking or climbing stairs, it is likely that the issue relates to joint degeneration, commonly known as osteoarthritis. This condition is characterized by the wear and tear of cartilage, leading to inflammation, pain, and reduced mobility.

In your mother's case, since she has already been diagnosed with joint degeneration and has been taking glucosamine supplements (like "維骨力"), it may be time to seek further evaluation. The choice between consulting an orthopedic surgeon or a neurosurgeon is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of the roles of each specialist:
1. Orthopedic Surgeon: This is the most appropriate specialist for knee pain related to joint issues. Orthopedic surgeons focus on the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation of knee pain, including physical examinations and imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs. If the diagnosis confirms osteoarthritis or other degenerative conditions, they can recommend treatments ranging from physical therapy and medications to surgical options if necessary.

2. Neurosurgeon: While neurosurgeons specialize in conditions affecting the nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord, they are not typically the first choice for knee pain unless there are neurological symptoms involved, such as nerve compression or radiculopathy affecting the leg. If your mother’s knee pain were accompanied by symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs, a neurosurgeon might be consulted to rule out any nerve-related issues.

Given that your mother has been experiencing knee pain primarily related to activity and has already been diagnosed with joint degeneration, I would recommend that you take her to an orthopedic surgeon. They can assess her condition more thoroughly and suggest appropriate interventions. This may include:
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can develop a tailored exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.

- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) can help manage pain and inflammation. If these are insufficient, the orthopedic surgeon may prescribe stronger medications or recommend injections, such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid.

- Lifestyle Modifications: Weight management, low-impact exercises (like swimming or cycling), and using assistive devices (like knee braces or canes) can significantly alleviate symptoms.

- Surgical Options: If conservative treatments fail, surgical options such as arthroscopy, osteotomy, or knee replacement may be considered, depending on the severity of the degeneration.

In conclusion, for your mother’s knee pain, I strongly recommend consulting an orthopedic surgeon. They will be able to provide a comprehensive evaluation and guide you through the most effective treatment options tailored to her specific condition. Early intervention can significantly improve her quality of life and help manage her symptoms effectively.