Knee

Knee pain impacts your ability to move, exercise, and perform daily activities. Whether caused by injury, arthritis, or wear and tear, it’s important to find the right treatment to restore mobility and relieve pain. At Aligned Orthopedic Partners, our board-certified orthopedic knee specialists provide comprehensive knee care, offering both non-surgical and surgical solutions to help you regain an active lifestyle.

Common Causes of Knee Pain

Knee pain can result from injuries, degenerative conditions, overuse, or chronic inflammation. Understanding the cause of your pain is key to determining the best treatment approach. Common knee pain conditions include, but are not limited to:

If you’re experiencing persistent knee pain, stiffness, swelling, or difficulty moving, an evaluation by an orthopedic specialist can help determine the right non-surgical or surgical treatment plan.

When to See an Orthopedic Knee Specialist for Knee Pain

Seek medical attention if you experience:

  • Severe or persistent knee pain lasting more than a few weeks.
  • Swelling, redness, or warmth around the knee joint.
  • Limited mobility or difficulty walking due to knee discomfort.
  • Locking or instability (feeling like your knee may give out).
  • Pain that interferes with daily activities or exercise.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further damage and improve outcomes. If conservative treatments fail to relieve pain, surgical options may be recommended.

Non-Surgical Knee Pain Treatment Options

Although our orthopedic knee specialists are highly trained orthopedic surgeons, they recognize that treating knee pain does not necessarily require surgery. Most knee pain issues can be treated without surgery through conservative approaches (from physical therapy, and pain management to lifestyle changes and bracing) allowing patients to regain mobility and reduce discomfort. If conservative treatments fail to relieve pain, surgical options may be recommended.

Minimally-Invasive Surgical Treatment Options for Knee Pain and Knee Replacement in Virginia

When knee pain persists despite non-surgical treatments, surgery may be the best option to restore function and relieve discomfort.

  • Arthroscopic Knee Surgery: A minimally invasive procedure to treat knee injuries, including meniscus repair, ligament reconstruction (ACL, MCL, PCL), cartilage restoration, and debridement to remove irritating fragments.
  • Partial Knee Replacement: A minimally invasive option for localized arthritis that preserves more natural knee function and offers a quicker recovery than total knee replacement.
  • Total Knee Replacement (Total Knee Arthroplasty): A total knee arthroplasty replaces the entire knee joint with an artificial implant, ideal for severe arthritis or advanced knee damage. Minimally invasive techniques help reduce pain and speed up recovery.
  • Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement: Advanced precision technology ensures accurate implant positioning with less tissue disruption, leading to a quicker recovery and better outcomes.

The best orthopedic knee replacement surgeons in Virginia will help you determine the best surgical approach based on your condition and lifestyle goals. Call now!

Why Choose Us for Knee Care in Virginia

At Aligned Orthopedic Partners, our team of knee specialists delivers expert care for everything from overuse injuries to advanced joint degeneration. Whether you’re recovering from a sports-related ACL tear, living with chronic arthritis, or aiming to avoid or delay knee replacement, we’re here to support your healing and long-term mobility.

Our knee care approach includes:

  • Fellowship-trained orthopedic knee surgeons skilled in diagnosing and surgically treating ACL and meniscus tears, arthritis, joint instability, and complex knee injuries

  • Fellowship-trained sports medicine physicians who focus on non-surgical treatment, injury prevention, rehabilitation, and long-term joint wellness

  • A collaborative, multidisciplinary team including physical therapists, rehabilitation specialists, and clinical staff who develop care plans tailored to your unique goals, symptoms, and lifestyle

  • Access to advanced diagnostics, minimally invasive surgical options, and the latest in research-based treatment for faster, more effective recovery

From conservative care to complex surgical procedures, our knee experts provide personalized treatment designed to reduce pain, restore strength, and help you move freely again.

Knee Specialists Serving Tysons, Virginia & the Greater DMV Region

Our orthopedic knee specialists treat patients throughout Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. From active professionals in Tysons to aging adults managing knee arthritis, we help individuals of all activity levels get back to doing what they love—pain-free.

If knee pain is limiting your movement or quality of life, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation with one of our orthopedic knee specialists in Tysons, Virginia. Call (833) 992-5446 or schedule your appointment online today.

 

Knee Conditions & Treatments:

Understanding Knee Arthritis (Osteoarthritis)

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, and your knees are a frequent target. It happens when the cartilage that cushions your knee joint wears down. Cartilage lets the bones of your knee (thighbone, shinbone, and kneecap) glide smoothly over each other. When it deteriorates, bones can rub together, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling.

What Causes Knee Osteoarthritis?

  • Age and Wear-and-Tear: A major factor, but not the only one.
  • Injury or Trauma: Previous knee injuries increase your risk.
  • Excess Weight: Puts additional stress on your joints.
  • Genetics: Some people are more prone to developing osteoarthritis.

Symptoms: What Should I Look For?

  • Pain: May be in the front, back, or sides of your knee. Often worsens with activity.
  • Stiffness: Especially after inactivity or in the morning.
  • Swelling: Your knee may feel warm and look puffy.
  • Crunching or Popping: You might hear or feel these sensations when bending your knee.
  • Loss of Mobility: Difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee, making daily tasks harder.

How Is Knee Arthritis Treated?

Treatment starts with these approaches:

  • Lifestyle Changes: Weight management (if needed) and low-impact activities help.
  • Physical Therapy: Specific exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting your knee, improving its stability and reducing stress on the joint.
  • Medication: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers and anti-inflammatories.
  • Bracing: A knee brace can provide support and reduce pain.
  • Cortisone injections offer temporary pain relief.

When is Knee Replacement Considered?

If the above treatments don’t provide enough relief and your pain severely impacts your life, knee replacement surgery may be an option. It involves replacing the damaged joint surfaces with artificial parts.

Important to Remember:

Early diagnosis is best: Treatment can slow the progression of arthritis and reduce pain.
Multiple treatment options: Your doctor will create a personalized plan for you.

Don’t Hesitate

If knee pain is interfering with your daily life, talk to your doctor. Don’t let arthritis hold you back!

Understanding Knee Pain

Knee pain is an extremely common problem that can affect anyone, regardless of age or activity level. It can limit daily activities, work, and the things you enjoy. Understanding the potential causes is the first step toward finding relief.

Common Causes of Knee Pain:
Injuries:

  • Sprains and strains (ligaments and muscles)
  • Torn cartilage (meniscus)
  • ACL or other ligament tears
  • Fractures

Arthritis:

  • Osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear)
  • Rheumatoid arthritis (autoimmune condition)

Overuse Issues:

  • Tendonitis (like patellar tendonitis or “jumper’s knee”)
  • Bursitis (inflammation of fluid-filled sacs)
  • IT Band Syndrome (pain on the outside of the knee)

Symptoms to Watch For:

  • Type of Pain: Sharp, dull, achy, burning
  • Location: Front, back, inner, outer knee
    When it Worsens: Activity, rest, certain movements
  • Other Symptoms: Swelling, redness, warmth, locking or giving way

When to See a Doctor:

  • Severe pain or a knee that won’t bear weight
    Significant swelling
  • Inability to straighten or fully bend your knee
  • Deformity or visible changes in the joint
  • Fever along with knee redness and warmth
  • Pain that persists beyond a few days or doesn’t improve with rest and ice

Getting the Right Diagnosis

Your doctor will:

  • Discuss your symptoms: The history of your knee pain is crucial.
  • Physically examine your knee: Checking for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion.
  • Order imaging: X-rays, MRIs, or other scans, if needed, for a clearer picture.

Treatment: It Depends on the Cause

Treatment will vary greatly depending on the diagnosis. Common approaches include:

  • Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE)
  • Medication (pain relievers, anti-inflammatories)
  • Physical therapy
  • Bracing or taping
  • Surgery (in specific cases of severe injury or advanced arthritis)

Don’t Ignore It

Knee pain often has a treatable cause. Ignoring it could lead to further damage and longer-term issues. Seek medical advice to start your path to recovery!

Understanding Meniscal Tears

Your meniscus is a C-shaped wedge of tough cartilage in your knee that acts like a shock absorber between your thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). You have two in each knee. A meniscal tear is a common injury that can cause pain, swelling, and knee instability.

How Do Meniscal Tears Happen?

  • Sudden Twisting Injury: Often seen in sports involving pivoting (like basketball or soccer), but can also happen in everyday activities involving twisting the knee.
  • Degenerative Tears: In older adults, the meniscus can weaken with age, making it more prone to tears with minimal force or wear and tear over time.

Symptoms of a Meniscal Tear

  • A “popping” sensation at the time of injury.
  • Pain, especially when twisting or squatting.
  • Swelling of the knee.
  • Stiffness and limited range of motion in the knee.
  • Feeling like your knee is catching, locking, or giving way.

Diagnosis and Treatment

  • Physical Exam: Your doctor will check for pain in specific locations, swelling, and signs of instability.
  • Imaging: An MRI is often used to confirm a meniscal tear and assess the severity.

Treatment Options

  • Nonsurgical:
    • RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
    • Anti-inflammatory medication.
    • Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles supporting your knee.
  • Surgery: If nonsurgical methods fail to adequately control pain and your knee remains unstable, your doctor may recommend arthroscopic surgery. This may involve:
  • Repair: Stitching the torn meniscus back together (may be possible depending on the location and type of tear).
  • Partial Removal (Meniscectomy): Trimming away the damaged portion of the meniscus.

Important to Know:

  • Early Treatment Matters: Seeking prompt evaluation increases the chances of repair (if possible), which generally offers better long-term outcomes.
  • Not All Tears Need Surgery: Many meniscal tears, especially in older people, may improve with nonsurgical treatment.
  • Rehab is Key: Careful physical therapy after either nonsurgical management or surgery is crucial for optimal recovery.

Seeking Medical Help
If you suspect a meniscal tear, don’t ignore it. Talk to your doctor to get a proper diagnosis and discuss the best treatment approach for your individual situation.

Understanding Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee)

Patellar tendonitis, also known as jumper’s knee, is an overuse injury affecting the tendon that connects your kneecap (patella) to your shinbone (tibia). This tendon is crucial for straightening your leg, making it especially common in athletes who do a lot of jumping, running, or kicking.

Why Does It Happen?

  • Repetitive Stress: Overuse of the patellar tendon leads to tiny tears and inflammation. This most often happens when pushing too hard, too fast, especially in sports.
  • Muscle Imbalances: Weak quadriceps (thigh muscles) or tight hamstrings put extra strain on the patellar tendon.
  • Other Factors: Foot structure (flat feet), hard training surfaces, and worn-out shoes can increase your risk.

Symptoms of Patellar Tendonitis

  • Pain at the front of the knee, just below the kneecap.
  • Worsens with jumping, kneeling, or squatting.
    Stiffness in the knee, especially in the morning or after sitting.
  • Tenderness when pressing on the patellar tendon.

Treatment: From Conservative to Advanced

Treatment usually starts with:

  • RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation to manage pain and swelling.
  • Medication: Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers and anti-inflammatories.
  • Physical Therapy: Specific exercises to strengthen the quadriceps and improve flexibility in the leg muscles, along with correcting technique issues.

If these methods don’t bring relief, you might consider:

Patellar Tendon Strap: A brace worn below the kneecap to take pressure off the tendon.

Important to Remember

  • Early intervention is key. It can prevent the problem from worsening.
  • Recovery takes time. Gradually return to sports and activities under guidance.
  • Address any underlying factors (weakness, foot issues) to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Talk to Your Doctor

Don’t let patellar tendonitis sideline you – seek medical advice to get on the road to recovery!

Understanding Iliotibial Band Syndrome

The iliotibial tract, also known as the iliotibial band (ITB), is a thick fascial band that runs along the outer part of your thigh, extending from the hip to the top of the shin.

It is made of dense fibrous connective tissue and originates from the iliac crest and inserts at the knee.

The primary function of the ITB and its associated muscles is to extend, abduct, and laterally rotate the hip.

Iliotibial Band Syndrome is known as a non-traumatic overuse injury that is often linked to weakness in the hip abductor muscles.

The condition is caused by repetitive knee flexion and extension, resulting in pain on the side of the knee.

It is particularly prevalent among cyclists and runners but can also be associated with activities such as cycling, hockey, swimming, hiking, and basketball.

What Are The Common Symptoms?

  • Pain and tenderness when palpating the outer part of the knee
  • Lingering pain after physical activity
  • Sensation of clicking in the knee
  • Tenderness in the buttocks
  • Warmth and redness around the knee

Treatment for Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Many people find relief from discomfort or inflammation by taking anti-inflammatory pain medication, using cold compresses, engaging in stretching and strengthening exercises.

It is very important to restrict activity temporarily to reduce pain, prevent additional harm, and to make sure the knee gets healed.

Sometimes, ultrasound and electrotherapy may be suggested to heal tension.

Understanding Osgood-Schlatter Disease

Osgood-Schlatter Disease is a prevalent injury caused by repetitive use that affects the growth plate located at the tibial tuberosity, resulting in inflammation and discomfort. This condition primarily impacts adolescents who are experiencing growth spurts, particularly those engaged in sports activities that involve running, jumping, and sudden changes in direction.

What Are The Symptoms?

  • Swelling of the patellar tendon and tibial tuberosity
  • Pain, swelling, and tenderness at the tibial tuberosity (the bony prominence below the kneecap)
  • Increased pain during activities like running, jumping, or squatting
  • Temporary alleviation of pain through rest

Treatment

Treatment for Osgood-Schlatter Disease

  • In general, treatment includes the use of the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, elevation)
  • Anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy to strengthen the nearby muscles are also effective
  • Usually, the condition resolves naturally as the growth plate closes.

Understanding Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner’s Knee)

Patellofemoral pain syndrome, also known as runner’s knee, is known as discomfort in the area surrounding the kneecap (patella). This condition arises from imbalances and misalignments in the muscles and structures that make up the knee. It is common among athletes engaged in activities where the knee flexes often, such as running, cycling, and jumping.

What Are The Symptoms?

  • A dull, persistent ache in the front of the knee
  • Worsening of knee pain during activities like squatting, ascending stairs, or prolonged sitting
  • Occasional instances of the knee buckling or giving way

Treatment

Managing Patellofemoral Pain: Effective Treatment Options

Treatments for patellofemoral pain syndrome include:

  • Physical therapy to strengthen knee muscles, improve flexibility, and correct imbalances.
  • Using orthotics or shoe inserts for foot support and lessening knee joint pressure.
  • Taking anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling

Understanding Quadricep & Hamstring Strains
The muscles in your thigh can be categorized into two main groups: the hamstring and the quadriceps.

The hamstring is composed of three muscles:

  • The Biceps Femoris
  • Semitendinosus
  • Semimembranosus

Thigh Muscles Overview

  • The hamstring muscles extend from the thigh to the knee along the back of the leg, aiding in knee flexion and hip extension.
  • Conversely, the quadriceps muscles are located on the front of the thigh, connecting to the pelvis, hip bones, thigh bones (femur), and kneecaps (patella) via tendons.
  • Strains in the quadriceps and hamstring muscles are common injuries resulting from excessive stretching and tearing of muscle fibers.
  • These injuries are often observed in sports involving sprinting, jumping, or sudden changes in direction.

What Are The Symptoms?

  • Sudden and sharp pain in the front (quadriceps) or back (hamstrings) of the thigh
  • Swelling and bruising
  • Difficulty walking or putting weight on the affected leg

Treatment for Quadriceps And Hamstring Strains: The Path To Relief

Treatment typically involves using the RICE method to effectively manage symptoms:

  • Rest: Giving the affected area time to heal and avoiding activities that worsen the condition.
  • Ice: Applying cold packs to reduce swelling and numb pain.
  • Compression: Wrapping the injured area with an elastic bandage to reduce swelling and provide support.
  • Elevation: Keeping the injured area elevated above the level of the heart to minimize swelling.

Physical therapy may also be recommended to aid in the recovery process, focusing on:

  • Regaining Strength: Through targeted exercises to strengthen the affected muscles and surrounding tissues.
  • Improving Flexibility: Utilizing stretches and range of motion exercises to enhance flexibility and prevent stiffness.

Following a complete treatment plan can help you recover faster and avoid future injuries.

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