Overview
The knee is a complex, weight-bearing hinge joint composed of three bones (the femur, tibia, and patella), cushioned by articular cartilage and two shock-absorbing menisci, and stabilized by strong ligaments. Because many structures can be injured or degrade over time, a precise medical examination is essential.
Common Causes of Knee Pain
- Osteoarthritis (degenerative wear-and-tear of protective joint cartilage)
- Meniscus tears caused by twisting injuries or age-related tissue thinning
- Ligament injuries including ACL, PCL, and MCL tears or sprains
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner's knee or kneecap misalignment)
- Bursitis and tendinitis (such as patellar tendonitis or pes anserine bursitis)
- Overuse strain and acute trauma from sports or workplace injuries
Symptoms That May Need Evaluation
You should consider an orthopedic evaluation if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Persistent aching or sharp pain when walking, bending, or bearing weight
- Swelling, warmth, or stiffness that worsens after periods of rest
- Clicking, grinding, or popping sensations inside the knee joint
- Instability or a feeling that the knee is 'giving way' or buckling
- Inability to fully straighten or bend the knee comfortably
How Problems Are Diagnosed
Your evaluation begins with a detailed health history and physical examination to test joint stability, range of motion, and localized tenderness. Digital X-rays are reviewed in-office to check for bone spurs, joint space narrowing, and alignment. If soft-tissue injury such as a meniscus or ligament tear is suspected, an MRI may be ordered.
Nonsurgical Treatment Options
Dr. Dalal emphasizes conservative care whenever possible before considering surgical intervention:
- Targeted physical therapy to strengthen supporting quadriceps and hamstrings
- Anti-inflammatory medications and lifestyle modifications
- Corticosteroid injections for rapid localized inflammation reduction
- Viscosupplementation (hyaluronic acid gel injections) for arthritis lubrication
- Custom bracing and supportive footwear guidance
When Surgery May Be Considered
When conservative therapies fail to provide adequate relief, surgical options may be discussed. Dr. Dalal performs minimally invasive arthroscopy for torn cartilage or loose bodies, and Mako robotic-assisted partial or total knee replacement for severe bone-on-bone osteoarthritis.
Related Treatments & Procedures
Learn more about treatments related to knee pain:
Why Choose Tri-State Orthopaedics
Dr. Dalal brings decades of orthopedic experience, early adoption of robotic-assisted joint replacement technology, and the personal continuity of an independent practice where you see the physician at every visit.
Our Office Locations
Dr. Dalal sees patients for knee pain evaluation at both of our Mid-South offices: