Understanding the Differences Between Acute and Chronic Knee Pain
The source of knee pain can be difficult to pinpoint. There is such a wide range of underlying causes, and each person has a unique medical history that can impact their experience with pain. To better understand the nature of knee pain, doctors have separated this condition into two distinct categories: acute pain and chronic pain.
If you aren’t sure which category your pain falls under, we’re here to give you the answers you’re looking for. Keep these guidelines in mind before scheduling an appointment with a Chicago knee pain doctor.
What Is Acute Knee Pain?
Acute pain is characterized by pain that occurs suddenly. It is typically triggered by a specific cause, and it tends to be sharp in quality. Some of the most common causes of acute knee pain in Chicago include:
- Broken bones
- Fractures
- Cuts or burns
- Surgical procedures
- Runner’s knee
- Torn ligaments
- Car accidents (dashboard knee)
- Injuries in the workplace
The key difference between acute pain and chronic pain is that the former usually disappears once the underlying cause of pain is no longer present. Once your pain goes away, you can carry on with your normal life without requiring any ongoing treatment.
What Is Chronic Knee Pain?
If your knee pain has persisted for more than six months, a Chicago knee pain doctor will likely need to treat you for chronic pain. Chronic pain is ongoing and normally doesn’t go away once the illness or injury that caused the pain has disappeared. In some cases, chronic pain can even last for months or years on end.
Examples of conditions that can trigger chronic knee pain include rheumatoid arthritis, tendinitis, osteoarthritis, dislocation, bursitis, and bone tumors. It’s crucial to see a medical professional to receive the proper diagnosis and to begin the recovery process.
Find Relief From Knee Pain in Chicago
If you’re looking to treat your knee pain without drugs or surgery, MAPS is here to help. As the trusted name in Interventional Pain Medicine in the Chicagoland area, we provide patients with healthy, long-lasting treatments that work. All of our Chicago pain doctors are double-board certified, fellowship-trained, and fully dedicated to ending unnecessary suffering. Contact our clinic today to learn more.
