What is knee pain?
Knee pain covers a wide range of issues: ligament or tendon strain, cartilage wear consistent with early osteoarthritis, overuse irritation from running or repetitive loading, and pain following a previous injury. The knee bears significant load with every step, so both the joint itself and the muscles supporting it are worth evaluating.
Common symptoms
- Pain with stairs, squatting, or kneeling
- Swelling that comes and goes
- Stiffness after sitting for a while
- A clicking or grinding sensation
- Pain that limits walking or exercise
- A sense of the knee "giving way"
Common causes
- Overuse from running, sports, or repetitive loading
- Early degenerative changes or arthritis
- A previous injury, such as a sprain or meniscus issue
- Muscle imbalance around the joint
- Ramping up activity quickly after a sedentary period
Does this sound like you?
If you have any of these, it may be time to get evaluated
This isn't a diagnosis. A knee that's visibly deformed, won't bear weight at all, or was injured by significant trauma needs urgent evaluation, not a scheduled visit.
Our approach
We start with an exam and orthopedic testing specific to the knee. Radial pressure wave (shockwave) therapy may support soft-tissue recovery and offer temporary relief as part of a broader plan; improvements may build over several sessions and results vary. PRP is considered for appropriate cases, using platelet-rich plasma from your own blood; it's offered off-label, a provider evaluation is required, and results vary. We'll tell you honestly which, if either, is worth considering for your knee.
What to expect at your first visit
Your exam includes orthopedic tests for ligament stability and joint mechanics, and we take X-rays in-house when indicated. We discuss the non-surgical options honestly, including what they can and can't be expected to do, before building a plan.
Why early, local care matters
Overuse patterns and mechanical issues that go unaddressed can progress toward more significant joint wear over time. Addressing the mechanics and loading patterns early, rather than pushing through pain, generally protects the joint better long-term.
Frequently asked questions
What's causing my knee pain?
Can shockwave therapy help knee pain?
Is PRP right for my knee?
Do I need an X-ray or MRI for knee pain?
Will I need surgery for my knee?
Key takeaway: Knee pain has many possible drivers, from overuse to early arthritis. An exam narrows down the cause, and non-surgical options like shockwave therapy and PRP may support recovery for appropriate candidates. Results vary.