It can be daunting when knee pain first shows up; the knee is a complex joint and it can be quite difficult to figure out where the pain is coming from without help. This is why many healthcare professionals refer to a knee specialist when dealing with this tricky joint. Angelo Mattalino, MD in Phoenix, AZ has made it very simple and comfortable to visit a knee specialist in Phoenix. It can often be confusing to figure out when knee pain warrants a visit to a specialist and when it just requires the old standard of RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Here are some tips about when and why to see a specialist.
General Practitioner Referral
This may seem like a no-brainer, but it can often be scary when a GP says it’s time to see a specialist; it can mean the injury could be serious. This often isn’t the case but can simply mean the doctor wants someone with more knowledge of knee anatomy and more specialized equipment to take a look.
Impact Injury
If there has been any kind of blunt force or sports injury to the knee, it’s important to see a specialist right away, especially if there is difficulty walking or swelling lasting over 48 hours. As the knee is a complex and sensitive apparatus, there can be damage to multiple ligaments, the patella or the meniscus, which require quick diagnosis. With so many hikers and athletes in this city, a knee specialist in Phoenix knows what to look for and can make assessments that can prevent surgery.
Sudden Pain With Swelling
This is a warning sign that can often be overlooked. Many people think that a little bit of knee pain when aging is normal and tend to ignore it. Both athletes and less active people can be at risk for sudden knee pain being more than normal wear and tear.
Instability, Loss of Range of Motion or Acute Pain
Any of these signs may indicate something that goes beyond a joint issue and could be an infection or something systemic. When acute pain, warmth around the joint or fever develop, emergency help should be sought before going to see a knee specialist in Phoenix. If instability or loss of range of motion occurs, it is definitely time to schedule an appointment with a knee specialist in Phoenix.
Conclusion
While it can be a little confusing at first when trying to figure out knee pain, it is definitely a good idea to see a knee specialist if any of the above conditions occur rather than waiting and possibly causing more damage. The team at Angelo Mattalino, MD in Phoenix stands at the ready to help you. Contact us today to book an appointment.