Arthritis is painful inflammation and stiffness of the joints, which can be caused by many types of degenerative or inflammatory conditions. There are many types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid, post-traumatic, septic, and gout. Arthritis symptoms often include swelling, tenderness, sharp pain, stiffness, and sometimes fever and chills.

Knee arthritis is one of the most common disabling locations for arthritis. It is managed initially with activity modifications, gait aids such as a cane, stretching and strengthening exercises to build up the supportive musculature, anti-inflammatory medications, Tylenol, and injections. When these options fail to provide relief, surgery may be indicated.

Bursitis is painful inflammation of the bursae, the fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles. It can be caused by an injury, infection or other condition. Pain may be accompanied by swelling, tenderness or loss of movement.

The ends of the bones in a joint are covered with articular cartilage. In the normal process of aging, this cartilage in the knee begins to soften and break down. As the cartilage deteriorates, the bones of the knee joint begin to rub together, causing damage and discomfort. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee joint. It is best managed by weight management, functional strengthening, and in some cases, surgery.

A knee fracture is a break in the bones of the knee joint. This typically happens as a result of trauma, such as a fall or forceful blow. The kneecap (patella), lower thigh bone (femur), or the upper shin bone (tibia) may be affected in a knee fracture. Symptoms include severe pain, tenderness, and swelling, accompanied by deformity of the knee joint and inability to walk or put weight on the injured leg. Treatment initially is ice and immobilization. Once we determine the extent of the fracture, treatment may be surgical or nonsurgical.

The iliotibial band is a group of fibrous tissues that runs down the outside of the thigh, providing stability to the knee and hip. It is a long stretch of tissue that crosses 2 joints, so irritation at either the hip or the knee can easily be transmitted. IT band syndrome causes the fibers to tighten, causing the band to rub against the bone when the knee is bent. Symptoms include pain on the outside of the knee or hip that improves with stretching or rest.

The knee joint has four ligaments (anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and lateral collateral ligament (LCL)). These ligaments are tough, flexible fibers that link the bones together, providing stability and controlling movement. Injuries to these ligaments may occur during sporting activities or with trauma, such as an abrupt twist or direct blow to the knee. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and a pop at the moment of injury. It may be difficult to put weight on the affected leg, and the knee joint may feel loose and unstable. Many of these can be diagnosed by history and physical exam, but Xrays and an MRI are also warranted to evaluate the extent of the injury.

Menisci are C-shaped discs of cartilage located between the bones of the knee joint. In each knee, there are 2 menisci, medial and lateral. Meniscus tears can happen suddenly as the knee ages or may be related to a twisting-type injury. Knees with arthritis will likely have degenerative, or age-related, meniscus tears. If there is a clear injury, the tear is often associated with swelling. Treatment is based on symptoms and the nature of the tear. Most degenerative tears are managed with rest, activity modifications, injections, and time. Many traumatic tears in younger patients are considered for surgery.

Tendonitis is inflammation of the tendons, the tissue that connects muscle to bone. Tendonitis is caused by overuse (repetitive motion) or sudden injury. Tendonitis symptoms include pain in the tendon area, swelling, and loss of motion.

Patellar tendonitis is inflammation in the patellar tendon that often results from repetitive impact. It is also referred to as “jumper’s knee”. Rest, immobilization, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy are the mainstays of treatment.

Quadriceps/Patellar tendon tears involve partial or complete disruption of the complex that powers knee extension. In most circumstances, if the muscles cannot power the knee to extend after an injury, surgery is recommended to restore the connection.

Our team diagnoses and treats a full range of knee issues, including ACL and ligament tears, meniscus injuries, osteoarthritis, patellar tendonitis, knee bursitis, and acute fractures.

You should schedule an evaluation if you experience persistent swelling, joint locking or instability, catching sensations, sharp pain when walking or putting weight on the leg, or a limited range of motion.

Many degenerative meniscus tears and mild ligament strains can be managed effectively with conservative methods like physical therapy, activity modifications, and targeted injections, though traumatic tears in younger or active patients often require surgical repair.

We offer comprehensive conservative therapies, including viscosupplementation (hyaluronic acid joint fluid injections), and innovative options like iovera° cold therapy or regenerative treatments.

Joint replacement is typically considered when severe cartilage wear or arthritis causes chronic pain and stiffness that significantly limits daily activities and fails to respond to non-surgical care.

Patients can utilize our BOS Express Orthopedic Walk-In Clinic in Waltham on Saturdays from 9 AM – 1 PM, or access free, 24/7 virtual orthopedic triage instantly through the integrated HURT! app.