Knee pain from work-related activities can be persistent and debilitating. While surgery might seem like the best solution, it should only be considered after exploring non-invasive treatments. If pain persists despite physical therapy, medication, and other conservative measures, surgery may be necessary. The severity of your condition, the impact on your ability to work, and your overall health will likely influence your decision.
Jumping into surgery too soon can lead to unnecessary risks, so it’s important to understand all available options. Read on to determine if surgery is the best course of action based on your job-related knee pain.
What types of knee injuries typically require surgery?
Common knee injuries that often need surgery include:
- Torn meniscus: Sudden twisting or repetitive stress can cause cartilage tears. Minor cases heal with therapy, but larger tears may need arthroscopic surgery.
- Ligament tears (ACL, MCL, PCL, LCL): Severe ligament injuries can make the knee unstable. Surgical reconstruction is often required, especially for ACL and PCL tears.
- Severe osteoarthritis: When cartilage damage is extensive, a total knee replacement may be necessary.
- Patellar fractures: A broken kneecap may need surgical stabilization with screws or plates.
- Tendon ruptures: A complete patellar or quadriceps tendon tear often requires surgical repair.
- Knee dislocations: Severe cases may need surgical reconstruction to restore joint stability.
What surgical options are available for job-related knee pain?
Surgery is usually a last resort when all other treatments fail. The type of procedure depends on the severity of the condition and the specific damage to the knee joint. These procedures might include:
- Arthroscopy: This is a minimally invasive procedure that removes damaged tissue or bone fragments. This surgery is often performed to treat meniscus tears or ligament damage. Recovery time is relatively short, with most patients resuming light activities within a few weeks.
- Total knee replacement: This is recommended for severe osteoarthritis or extensive knee joint damage. The procedure replaces the damaged knee with artificial components, providing long-term pain relief. Recovery takes longer, but the results can significantly improve mobility and overall quality of life.
Each procedure has its own risks and benefits, so be sure to discuss either option with an orthopedic specialist before proceeding.
What does rehabilitation after knee surgery involve?
Recovering from knee surgery requires a structured rehabilitation program to restore strength and function. The process typically includes:
Physical therapy
A therapist guides you through exercises that gradually restore knee function and reduce stiffness. These exercises help rebuild muscle strength in the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles, all of which support the knee joint. Strengthening these muscles helps alleviate pressure on the knee, which makes movement easier and reduces the risk of future injuries.
Functional training
Returning to normal activities after knee surgery requires learning how to move in a way that protects the knee from further strain. Functional training helps you relearn basic movements, such as walking, climbing stairs, and bending, without causing stress to the healing joint.
If you have a physically demanding job, a therapist can incorporate job-specific movements into the rehabilitation plan. For example, a warehouse worker may practice lifting techniques that reduce knee strain, while a construction worker may focus on safe kneeling and squatting postures.
Symptom management
Managing post-surgical symptoms is important for a smooth recovery. Swelling and pain are common after knee surgery, but proper management techniques help control discomfort and speed up healing. Ice therapy is often recommended in the first few weeks after surgery to reduce inflammation. You should also apply ice packs to the knee for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day to minimize swelling.
Heat therapy becomes useful in later stages of recovery when stiffness occurs. A warm compress or heating pad can relax tight muscles and improve blood circulation to the knee. In addition to ice and heat, prescribed medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs or pain relievers can help manage discomfort.
Progress monitoring
Tracking recovery progress helps ensure that the rehabilitation program remains effective. A doctor can conduct regular assessments to measure improvements in knee mobility, strength, and pain levels. These evaluations help identify any issues that may require adjustments to the therapy plan.
You should communicate any concerns about pain, stiffness, or difficulty performing certain activities with your doctor or therapist. They can make adjustments to your rehabilitation program, such as modifying exercises or extending therapy duration.
When should you use medication for knee pain?
If physical therapy doesn't provide enough relief, medication may be the next step. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen help reduce inflammation and manage pain. However, prolonged use can have side effects, particularly for the liver and kidneys. Always consult a doctor before taking NSAIDs regularly.
In addition to medication, cold and heat therapy can provide relief. Ice therapy helps reduce swelling when applied for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Heat therapy, such as a warm compress or heating pad, can loosen muscles and improve blood flow. A qualified doctor can advise you on the best approach for your specific condition.
For added support, consider getting knee straps. These accessories apply gentle pressure around the knee to reduce strain and provide extra stability during work and physical activity.
Did you injure your knee at work? IMC Bone Doc is here to help
A knee injury can make even the simplest tasks feel impossible. Whether you suffered a sudden workplace accident or years of repetitive strain have taken a toll, you shouldn’t have to push through the pain. That's why IMC Bone Doc is here to help. We understand how knee injuries can impact your ability to work, move, and enjoy life. That’s why our board-certified orthopedic surgeons are ready to provide the care you need.
With over 100 years of combined experience, we specialize in diagnosing and treating work-related knee injuries, helping patients regain mobility and strength. We take the time to identify the exact cause of your knee pain by using advanced diagnostic technology, including MRI machines at each of our seven New York locations. We create a personalized care plan to get you back on your feet as quickly and safely as possible.
Plus, our on-site physical therapy services ensure a smooth recovery, so you can regain function and return to work with confidence. We accept workers’ compensation and most major insurance plans, so you can focus on healing, not paperwork. Contact us to schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward relief.
"I am a former patient of dr.Robert Hecht. He is very thorough in taking care of his patients. He is very concerned about his patient health and well-being. He personally will follow up with his patients to inquire about their treatments like therapies,MRI, and any other concerns. He is the one doctor who will go above and beyond to make sure his patients is cared for." - MF — ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
