Skip to main content

Knee Pain
in Burbank

Home » Conditions Treated » Knee Pain

Knee pain is a common orthopedic condition that affects people of all ages. It manifests as discomfort, stiffness, swelling, and limited mobility in the knee joint. If you experience knee pain in Burbank, consult Dr. Gelber for a thorough diagnosis and evaluation — he will curate a bespoke treatment plan to help you reclaim an active, pain-free life.

Patellar Tendinitis

Patellar tendinitis, or “jumper’s knee,” is a common cause of knee pain. This condition primarily affects athletes and individuals engaged in repetitive jumping or running activities. It occurs due to the inflammation of the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shinbone. The constant strain on this tendon can lead to pain, swelling, and tenderness below the kneecap.

Man running up stairs after resolving knee pain in Burbank.

Common Symptoms of Patellar Tendinitis:

  • Knee pain, particularly below the kneecap
  • Swelling and tenderness in the affected area
  • Increased discomfort with physical activity
  • Stiffness in the knee joint
  • Difficulty in kneeling or bending the knee
  • Possible weakness in the leg muscles surrounding the knee.

Knee Arthritis

Knee arthritis is a degenerative condition characterized by the breakdown of the knee’s protective cartilage. Osteoarthritis develops with age or as a consequence of joint injuries, and rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks its own tissues. Knee arthritis is a leading cause of knee pain in Burbank, and can cause joint stiffness, swelling, and a decreased range of motion.

Common Symptoms of Knee Arthritis:

  • Persistent knee pain, especially during activity
  • Swelling and inflammation around the knee joint
  • Stiffness in the knee, especially after periods of inactivity
  • Audible cracking or popping sensations in the knee
  • Limited range of motion, making it difficult to fully bend or straighten the knee
  • Weakness in the leg muscles around the affected knee
  • Potential deformity or changes in the knee joint’s shape over time

Chondromalacia Patellae

Chondromalacia patellae is a condition where the cartilage underneath the kneecap softens and deteriorates. It is a common cause of knee pain, especially among athletes and individuals with improper knee alignment. Chondromalacia can result from overuse, injury, or misalignment of the patella, leading to pain, grinding sensations, and swelling in the front of the knee.

Man with knee pain in Burbank

Common Symptoms of Chondromalacia Patellae:

  • Persistent, dull pain in the front of the knee
  • Grinding or popping sensations when moving the knee
  • Swelling or inflammation around the kneecap
  • Increased discomfort when climbing stairs or sitting for extended periods
  • A feeling of knee weakness or instability
  • Limited range of motion and difficulty fully straightening the knee
A man holding his knee, indicating knee pain in Burbank before getting it resolved.

Treatment Options for Knee Pain

To resolve knee pain in Burbank, consult Dr. Gelber for a comprehensive assessment. He will carefully examine your knees and administer imaging tests to identify the root cause of your condition, following which he will curate a personalized treatment plan, which may include:

  • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections: This treatment involves extracting a sample of the patient’s own blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting the resulting PRP directly into the knee joint. The high concentration of platelets in PRP releases growth factors that stimulate tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
  • Stem cell injections: Stem cell therapy utilizes stem cells harvested from the patient’s bone marrow or adipose tissue or from a donor source to facilitate tissue regeneration and repair within the knee joint. These cells have the unique ability to differentiate into various cell types, aiding in the regeneration of damaged cartilage, ligaments, and other structures.
  • Cortisone injections: Corticosteroids are potent anti-inflammatory medications administered directly into the knee joint to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. While providing short-term relief, cortisone injections can effectively manage symptoms, allowing patients to engage in rehabilitative exercises and other therapies to address the underlying cause.
  • Viscosupplementation: This treatment involves injecting a thick gel-like substance called hyaluronic acid directly into the knee joint to restore lubrication and cushioning. Hyaluronic acid acts as a shock absorber, reducing friction and pain in the joint, particularly in individuals with knee osteoarthritis, and improving overall joint function and mobility.
  • Physical therapy: Customized physical therapy programs focus on strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee, improving flexibility, and restoring range of motion. Through targeted exercises, manual therapy techniques, and modalities such as ultrasound and electrical stimulation, physical therapy aims to address the underlying causes of knee pain in Burbank.
  • Arthroscopic surgery: When conservative treatments fail to provide adequate relief, arthroscopic surgery may be recommended to address torn cartilage or damaged ligaments. This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a small camera and surgical instruments through tiny incisions in the knee. This allows for precise visualization and treatment of the underlying issue, resulting in improved joint function and pain relief.

Other Possible Causes of Knee Pain:

  • Knee bursitis
  • Knee meniscus tears
  • Ligament injuries (e.g., ACL, MCL)
  • Tendinitis in knee tendons
  • Iliotibial band syndrome
  • Knee infections

Knee Pain FAQs

What lifestyle factors can contribute to knee pain?

Lifestyle factors such as obesity, lack of exercise, poor diet, and high-impact activities can contribute to knee pain. Carrying extra weight puts additional stress on the knees, while inactivity can weaken muscles supporting the joint. A balanced diet and regular, low-impact exercise can help manage and prevent knee pain.

Is knee pain more common in athletes?

Yes, knee pain is more common in athletes due to the repetitive stress and strain placed on their knees during training and competition. High-impact sports, sudden movements, and overuse can lead to injuries such as ligament tears, tendonitis, and meniscus damage, making knee pain in Burbank a frequent issue among athletes.

Can physical therapy help with knee pain?

Physical therapy can significantly help with knee pain by strengthening the muscles around the knee, improving flexibility, and increasing the range of motion. A tailored physical therapy program can also teach patients proper techniques to avoid further injury, promote healing, and alleviate pain through targeted exercises and therapies.

Are there certain activities that should be avoided if you have knee pain?

If you have knee pain, avoid high-impact activities like running, jumping, and deep squats, which can exacerbate the condition. Instead, opt for low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, or walking on even surfaces.

Consult Dr. Gelber Today

Dr. Jonathan Gelber is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with specialized training in sports medicine. He offers personalized care in a patient-focused setting, taking the time to listen to your concerns and lifestyle goals and helping you develop long-term solutions to achieve and maintain optimal mobility. Don’t let knee pain in Burbank hold you back; schedule your consultation for a path to relief and recovery.

Schedule a
Consultation

BOOK NOWCALL US
Contact Us 818.848.3030