If you start noticing knee pain, you may be tempted to ignore it, especially if you are training for a big sports event. While a few knee problems can subside with at-home care, ignoring other knee injuries and pain can lead to permanent damage to your joint. That’s precisely why we recommend seeking medical assistance if you continue to experience knee pain, especially while playing sports.
It Could Be An Indication of Something Serious
Knee pain is often confused as general soreness due to strenuous training and workout. However, that's not always the case. The knee is one of the largest joints in the body that is integral for several other body parts' effective functioning. And often, knee pain is an indication that something is wrong with the joint and the associated area.
If you experience knee pain, especially while playing sports, your first response should be DIY home care using the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) and the use of an OTC pain medication. However, if your pain does not subside within a few days, it could be an indication of something more serious such as a torn muscle, ligament, or cartilage. While muscle and ligament sprains and tears are common sports injuries, they can cause severe pain and may not return to their normal shape once stretched or sprained. As a result, they may require surgery.
Moreover, if you have a history of sports-related knee injuries, the recurrence of pain in the same area could be even more serious. A history of knee injuries can increase your risk of infections in the joints (septic arthritis).
Therefore, it is always best to immediately seek medical advice from a professional trained in sports medicine.
Early Diagnosis Can Help Prevent and Delay the Onset of Several Joint Condition
Knee pain, especially while playing sports, could indicate some underlying changes in the structure of your joint and the surrounding areas. Osteoarthritis, a condition caused by the wearing down of cartilage, can be easily diagnosed if you see a medical professional right in time. While the condition cannot be reversed, your medical practitioner can guide you about ways to delay the onset of undesirable symptoms associated with arthritis, such as chronic pain and joint erosion. Since arthritis changes do not occur overnight, an early diagnosis can help prevent and delay the onset of joint injury and degeneration.
As soon as you experience knee pain while playing sports, it is best to speak to your GP and get a referral to see an orthopedic specialised in sports injuries. To find out more about our medical services, contact us now.