Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
What Causes Severe Knee Pain?
Question: I am 78 years old. I have seen orthopedic surgeons concerning my terribly hurting knees and have been told that I will probably never need knee replacement. Who do I see to get some relief from the pain? We have tried cortisone shots several times and they give a little relief for about 4 weeks. I don't now what type of doctor to go to now.
Brief Answer:
Trained physiotherapist will be helpful.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
I am Dr. Prakash HM and I will be answering your query.
Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:
1. Terribly hurting knees at your age, relieved by cortisone shots is possibly Osteoarthritis. It is age related and is due to continuous stressful damage to knee joint cartilage.
2. Cortisone shots, have only short term effects and it should not be used too often. Numerous cortisone shots will impair healing and further damage will occur.
3. Weight reduction, good supportive cushioned shoes/ slippers, Knee stabilization through knee supports/ braces, muscle strengthening (passive and active - all muscles surrounding knee joint, oral painkillers could be beneficial.
4. Physiotherapist would be very beneficial at this point for relief in pain.
5. As the pain is severe, do get an X-ray done for evaluation of the amount of damage to knee joint. If physiotherapy and above methods, do not give you comfort, knee replacement may be the best option left.
Do consult a physiotherapist, and he can help you further.
Hope it helps.
Any further queries, here to help again.
Dr. Prakash HM
Trained physiotherapist will be helpful.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thanks for asking.
I am Dr. Prakash HM and I will be answering your query.
Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:
1. Terribly hurting knees at your age, relieved by cortisone shots is possibly Osteoarthritis. It is age related and is due to continuous stressful damage to knee joint cartilage.
2. Cortisone shots, have only short term effects and it should not be used too often. Numerous cortisone shots will impair healing and further damage will occur.
3. Weight reduction, good supportive cushioned shoes/ slippers, Knee stabilization through knee supports/ braces, muscle strengthening (passive and active - all muscles surrounding knee joint, oral painkillers could be beneficial.
4. Physiotherapist would be very beneficial at this point for relief in pain.
5. As the pain is severe, do get an X-ray done for evaluation of the amount of damage to knee joint. If physiotherapy and above methods, do not give you comfort, knee replacement may be the best option left.
Do consult a physiotherapist, and he can help you further.
Hope it helps.
Any further queries, here to help again.
Dr. Prakash HM
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
