Knee pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints, affecting people of all ages and activity levels.
Whether it’s a result of an old sports injury, arthritis, or simply wear and tear over time, knee pain can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life. If you’re struggling with persistent or worsening knee issues, it may be time to explore sunshine coast orthopaedic clinic designed to get you moving comfortably again.
Understanding Knee Pain
The knee is a complex joint that bears a lot of weight and handles a wide range of motion. It’s made up of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons—all of which are vulnerable to injury or degeneration. Common causes of knee pain include:
- Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of joint cartilage, especially in older adults.
- Ligament injuries: Such as ACL or MCL tears, often seen in athletes.
- Meniscus tears: Damage to the cartilage that cushions the knee joint.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons from overuse.
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome: Pain around the kneecap, often from misalignment or overuse.
Understanding the root cause is key to finding the right treatment plan. That’s where an orthopaedic specialist can help.
When to See an Orthopaedic Specialist
If knee pain is persistent, interfering with your ability to walk, exercise, or sleep, or if it’s accompanied by swelling, instability, or stiffness, it’s time to see a specialist. Orthopaedic doctors on the Sunshine Coast can provide expert diagnosis using imaging tools like X-rays, MRIs, and physical assessments.
You don’t need to wait until the pain is severe—early intervention often leads to better outcomes.
Non-Surgical Solutions
Many cases of knee pain can be managed without surgery. Sunshine Coast orthopaedic clinics often offer a range of conservative treatments, including:
- Physiotherapy to strengthen surrounding muscles and improve joint mechanics.
- Anti-inflammatory medication or corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and swelling.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which uses your own blood components to promote healing in soft tissues.
- Bracing or orthotic support to stabilise and protect the knee during movement.
- Lifestyle advice, including weight management and activity modification, to reduce joint stress.
These options are typically tailored to the individual based on the cause and severity of their knee pain.
Surgical Options
If non-surgical treatments don’t provide relief, your orthopaedic specialist may recommend surgical intervention. Common procedures include:
- Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure used to repair torn cartilage or ligaments.
- Partial or total knee replacement: Typically for severe arthritis or joint damage.
- Realignment procedures: To correct structural issues and reduce pain.
Thanks to advancements in surgical techniques and rehabilitation programs, recovery times are shorter and outcomes are better than ever.
Local Expertise on the Sunshine Coast
The Sunshine Coast is home to highly experienced orthopaedic surgeons and multidisciplinary teams dedicated to joint health. With access to modern facilities, advanced diagnostics, and personalised care, local patients can expect high-quality treatment close to home.
In Summary
If knee pain is slowing you down, you don’t have to suffer in silence. From expert diagnosis to tailored treatment plans, the Sunshine Coast offers a wide range of orthopaedic solutions to help you get back on your feet, pain-free and confident.
