Knee Doctor

What is the Name for a Knee Specialist?

There are several types of Knee Doctors who treat the knee. The quick answer is at the Jacksonville Orthopedic Institute, we have Orthopedic Surgeons, Physiatrists, and Internal Medicine Doctors with Sports Medicine Specialties who all evaluate and diagnose knee pain issues.

What Kind of Doctor Should I See for Joint and Muscle Pain?

In most cases, your primary care physician is the first stop if you have muscle and joint pain or pain in the tendons in the knee. Tendinitis and arthritis are common issues in the knee. They may order physical therapy and diagnostic tests as needed. If the problem is severe, they may refer you to a knee specialist or knee doctor to further evaluate the issues in the knee. Depending on your insurance, you may be able to go directly to a specialist, such as an Orthopaedic doctor or Surgeon.

Anatomy of the Knee

What do Knee Doctors do for Knee Pain?

The quick answer is knee doctors evaluate the knee with special tests during the examination and may order X-rays or MRIs if needed to determine whether there is a fracture or tear in the tissue of the knee. They often refer patients to physical therapy as the first line of treatment as a conservative approach. Knee doctors may prescribe pain or anti-inflammatory medication to allow patients to perform daily activity easier. They may order special tests like an MRI to help diagnose your knee.

What Painkiller is Best for Knee Pain?

Knee pain can limit daily activity. Knee issues are often noticed during squatting, stairs, and even with daily walking activity. One of the best ways to decrease pain in the knee is to place an ice pack on the knee for about 15 minutes. This can calm pain and decrease inflammation. Other methods include considering proper foot wear. High heels can change the mechanics in the knee and increase pain. Wearing flats is typically recommended for knee pain. Medications are prescribed based on the severity and health of a patient. It is best to see a physician before taking medications for pain.

Knee Doctor Image of a knee patient

Should I see an Orthopedic Doctor for Knee Pain?

Choosing the whether to see an orthopedic doctor for your knee pain should depend on the severity. I you have been in an accident or took a blow to the knee and you cannot put weight on it, the emergency department is the usually the first stop. The ER doctor will likely take X-rays and consult an orthopedic surgeon if needed. If the knee injury is not an immediate emergency, you may make an appointment to see a knee doctor at their office.

If you have knee pain that is not from trauma, your primary care doctor may be able to manage the knee pain.

Should I get my Knee Checked Out?

Knee injuries and pain can limit your lifestyle and daily activity. It is important to address knee issues early to avoid more serious issues. Here are some ways to know it is time to see a knee doctor.

Does knee pain keep you from using stairs?
Do you avoid walking due to knee pain?
Is your knee swollen in the front or back?
Did you feel a pop when the knee started hurting?
Can you stand on the painful knee?
Does your knee feel hot?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, it may be time to get your knee checked out.

Can an Orthopedic Doctor Treat Arthritis?

Orthopedic doctors treat arthritis all the time. Osteoarthritis is one of the most common reasons people see orthopedic doctors or surgeons. Severe arthritis might require a joint replacement or arthroplasty. Other forms of arthritis may also need to be treated by a Rheumatologist.

If you would like to learn more about knee replacements, this video may help.

JOI Physicians have 5 locations in the Jacksonville and North Florida Area. To schedule for a New Patient Physician Appointment, please call 904-564-2000 or we have online scheduling on our home page. JOI Rehab has 12 locations in North Florida. To schedule with JOI Rehab, please call the location or call 904-858-7045. JOI Rehab is now hiring! To find out about our current job openings, please follow this LINK.

By: Ehren Allen, DPT/Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist