Chronic knee pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint, especially as we age. Not too hard to believe, especially considering all that we ask our knees to do, day in and day out.

If any of the following conditions slow you down, speak with your health care provider to get moving again.

Osteoarthritis

What is it?
A disease in which weakened joint cartilage causes bones to rub together. Pain often increases with activity.
How is it treated?
A first course of treatment for this most common form of arthritis usually involves over-the-counter or prescribed medications. In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be necessary.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

What is it?
A disease in which your body's own immune system attacks joint tissue, including knee cartilage.
How is it treated?
Anti-inflammatory medication and prescription drugs may delay progression of or control disease symptoms.

Pseudogout

What is it?
Through this type of arthritis, your body forms calcium phosphate crystals that collect in the joints (commonly the knee), causing sudden, severe pain. You may experience swelling, red or purple discoloration and severe tenderness.
How is it treated?
Similar to gout, if you are diagnosed with pseudogout you may receive anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen to reduce pain or swelling, or prescription drugs or steroid injections.

Bursitis

What is it?
Inflammation of the bursa, a small lubricating sac between a bone and soft tissue, in this case, in front of the kneecap.
How is it treated?
You can often treat bursitis with rest, ice and anti-inflammatory medications. If swelling is severe, your health care provider may remove excess fluid from the bursa. If infected, antibiotics may be prescribed.

Tendonitis

What is it?
Your knee tendon becomes inflamed or irritated due to overuse.
How is it treated?
If tendonitis doesn't improve on its own, your health care provider may prescribe steroid injections, physical therapy and surgery.

You don't have to live with knee pain. Call Riverside Community Hospital at (951) 788-3463 to find an orthopedic specialist that can help you understand your condition and what treatments may work best to keep such pain from interfering with your lifestyle.

Sources: AAOS.org, FamilyDoctor.org, MedlinePlus.gov