Knee Pain Treatment in New Jersey

The knee is a complex joint essential for a wide range of movements and for bearing much of our weight during activity. Injuries to the knee can be as varied as the activities that cause them, like overuse, sudden movements during sports, improper alignment, or traumatic impact.

diagram of knee structure
Knee structure

Whether your knee pain is due to a sudden twist on the field resulting in a meniscal tear or a gradual onset of pain from osteoarthritis, our orthopedic specialists are here for you. Our dedicated orthopedic team delivers personalized care, expert diagnosis and comprehensive treatment options to optimize recovery from knee injuries.

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Types of Knee Conditions We Treat

Knee injuries can range from mild to severe. Common knee injuries include:

  • ACL injury. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is key to knee stability. Injuries here can cause pain, swelling and instability.
  • MCL injury. Injuries to the medial collateral ligament (MCL) often occur when a force pushes the knee sideways. They can cause pain and swelling in the inner knee and make the knee feel loose or unstable.
  • PCL injury. The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) plays a key role in stabilizing the knee. Injuries here can happen with a direct impact to the front of the knee, such as from a car accident or a fall. PCL injuries may result in pain, swelling and difficulty walking.
  • Baker’s cyst. Also known as popliteal cyst, Baker’s cyst is a collection of joint fluid in the back of the knee behind the joint which can cause pain and swelling. Treatment options include aspiration, injection and excision or rest.
  • Bursitis. Bursitis of the knee occurs when the small sacs of fluid that cushion the knee joint become inflamed. This condition leads to pain and can restrict movement. It's often a result of repetitive motions or prolonged pressure on the knee.
  • Jumper’s knee. Also known as Osgood-Schlatter disease, jumper's knee is an overuse injury causing pain at the front of the knee, typically where the patellar tendon attaches to the shinbone. It's common in adolescents experiencing growth spurts and can cause a bump in this area.
  • Patellar and quadriceps tendon injuries. Injuries to the kneecap (patella) or quadriceps tendons can occur from jumping or rapid direction changes. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, and an inability to straighten the knee.
  • Patellofemoral pain. Patellofemoral pain syndrome is characterized by pain around the kneecap and in the front of the knee. It can be a result of misalignment, muscle imbalance or overuse.
  • Torn meniscus. The meniscus is a cartilage that stabilizes and cushions providing support and protection to the surrounding bones and joints as they move, rotate, and bear weight. Tears can lead to pain, swelling and difficulty moving the knee.

Whether you're an athlete or someone who enjoys an active lifestyle, understanding the sources of knee pain is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. Early recognition of symptoms is essential for preventing further damage.

Knee Pain Causes

Several factors can increase the risk of knee pain and injuries, including:

  • Age. As people get older, the cartilage in the knee can wear down, and muscles can weaken, increasing the risk of pain and injury.
  • Overuse. Repetitive motion from activities like running, jumping, or cycling can lead to overuse injuries in the knee.
  • Excessive weight. Being overweight or obese puts extra pressure on the knee joints, which can lead to pain and conditions like osteoarthritis.
  • Lack of muscle flexibility or strength. Tight or weak muscles offer less support for the knee and can lead to injuries.
  • Sports participation. Certain sports that involve quick turns and stops, jumping or repetitive impact can increase the risk of knee injury.
  • Improper training. Exercising without proper warmup or without the correct form can put unnecessary stress on the knee.
  • Previous injury. Having a previous knee injury makes it more likely to injure your knee again.
  • Genetics. Some conditions like flat feet or knees that turn in or out can make one more susceptible to knee problems due to the alignment and impact on the knee.
  • Occupational hazards. Jobs that require kneeling, squatting or lifting heavy objects can increase the risk of knee injury.
  • Certain diseases. Medical conditions such as osteoporosis or arthritis can weaken bones or joints, making them more vulnerable to pain and injury.
  • Degradation of or irritation from a prosthetic knee implant. If you have had a partial or total knee replacement, it may be wearing, causing pain and swelling.

Understanding these risk factors can help in developing strategies to prevent knee pain and injuries, such as maintaining a healthy weight, strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and using proper techniques during physical activities.

Knee Pain Symptoms

Symptoms of knee injuries can include:

  • Localized pain
  • Swelling
  • Instability
  • A popping sensation at the time of injury
  • Difficulty in bearing weight or moving the knee
  • Back of knee pain

Knee Pain Diagnosis

To diagnose a knee injury, an orthopedic specialist will conduct a comprehensive examination, review your medical history with you, and may perform tests such as:

  • Palpation. Checking the knee to identify areas of tenderness, swelling or warmth.
  • Range of motion tests. Assessing the range of motion by asking the patient to bend or extend the knee.
  • Evaluation of the stability of the knee. Stressing the knee to assess the integrity of the ligament.
  • Observation of movement. Observing gait patterns to detect limping or difficulty with weight bearing.
  • Imaging tests. Using X-rays, MRI, CT scans or ultrasound enables orthopedic doctors to get a detailed view of the knee structures.

Our Treatment Approach

Effective management of knee pain is crucial for maintaining an active lifestyle and ensuring long-term joint health. Our treatment approach may include:

  • Thorough assessment and accurate diagnosis
  • Personalized treatment strategies tailored to each individual's condition
  • Use of both advanced nonsurgical methods and cutting-edge surgical techniques
  • Expert care from seasoned orthopedic specialists for a successful recovery

We accompany our patients through their entire knee pain journey, from the initial consultation to complete rehabilitation. With our modern facilities, a team of expert orthopedists, orthopedic surgeons, and dedicated sports medicine professionals, we offer a holistic approach to knee pain treatment.

Our treatment plans are customized according to the severity of the knee condition and may range from conservative management to advanced surgical repair. Our therapeutic options include:

  • RICE technique. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) can manage swelling and pain and allow the tendon to heal.
  • Immobilization. Using braces or supports to stabilize the knee and facilitate recovery.
  • Physical therapy. Targeted exercises to strengthen the knee joint and improve flexibility.
  • Anti-inflammatory medication. Both prescription and over-the-counter drugs can alleviate pain and inflammation. Some cases may call for the administration of corticosteroid injections.
  • Surgery. In some cases, surgery may be indicated to alleviate knee pain.

Knee Surgery

When nonsurgical treatments do not get rid of the pain, our expert surgeons may perform minimally invasive surgeries, including knee arthroscopy, meniscal debridement or repair and ligament reconstruction. If arthritis progresses, partial or total knee replacement surgery may be indicated. We also specialize in advanced treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP)therapy and other regenerative medicine techniques to foster healing and recovery and relieve knee pain.

Orthopedic Rehabilitation and Recovery from Knee Pain Treatment

The recovery period from treatment for knee pain can vary widely; minor knee pain may subside within a few weeks, while more significant injuries, including those requiring surgery, could necessitate several months of orthopedic rehabilitation. We design personalized rehabilitation programs to provide the best outcomes to get back to activities of daily life more quickly.

Rehabilitation can be a pivotal component of the recovery process. Our orthopedic team develops individualized recovery plans which may include:

  • Progressive weight-bearing exercises to gradually restore strength and support to the knee.
  • Stretching and strengthening routines to increase the range of motion and muscle support around the knee.
  • Gait and balance training to improve mobility and prevent future injuries.

Expert Care for Knee Pain

RWJBarnabas Health is New Jersey’s largest and most comprehensive academic health care system. We offer award-winning medical services, highly skilled orthopedists and board-certified orthopedic surgeons. Our facilities have state-of-the-art equipment essential for accurately diagnosing and effectively treating knee injuries.

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Don't let knee pain go untreated. Early intervention by our orthopedic specialists can prevent complications and expedite recovery. Contact us today.

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Patient Stories

  • “We love that Sydney’s treatment plan is very tailored. We can’t say enough good things about Megan.”

    Sydney
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  • “It was like a miracle. I realized that I needed to stop suffering and start living.”

    Robin
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  • “I’ve returned to work and can walk without pain.”

    Deborah
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Patient Stories

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RWJ Rehabilitation at Delaware Valley
123 Franklin Corner Rd.
Suite 103
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
(609) 896-9054
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Medical Specialty Services at Bayonne
16 East 29th Street
Bayonne, NJ 07002
(973) 926-7280
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Cristie Kerr Women's Health Center
377 Jersey Avenue
Ground Floor, Medical Office Building
Jersey City, NJ 07302
(877) 393-5374
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RWJBarnabas Health Ambulatory Care Center
200 South Orange Avenue
Livingston, NJ 07039
(973) 322-7000
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Community Medical Center’s Comprehensive Breast Center
368 Lakehurst Rd
1st Floor, Suite 102
Toms River, NJ 08755
(732) 557-3363
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RWJPE Sports Medicine New Jersey
186 County Road 520
Suite 3
Morganville, NJ 07751
(732) 946-2100
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RWJ Balance & Hearing Center
2 Hamilton Health Place
Hamilton Township, NJ 08690
(609) 245-7390
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The Jacqueline M. Wilentz Breast Center at Howell
4013 Route 9
Suite 2S
Howell, NJ 07731
(732) 923-7700
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The Jacqueline M. Wilentz Breast Center at Colts Neck
310 Route 34 South
Second Floor
Colts Neck, NJ 07722
(732) 923-7700
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RWJ Sports Physical Therapy at Bridgewater
1 Patriots Park
TD Bank Park
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
(908) 203-5972
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RWJ Sports Physical Therapy at Flemington
295 State Highway 31/202
Flemington, NJ 08822
(908) 806-2000
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Care Connection at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Rahway
865 Stone Street
4th floor
Rahway, NJ 07065
(732) 499-6460
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RWJ Sports Physical Therapy at Hillsborough
1 Jill Court
Building 16 Suite 20
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
(908) 359-8800
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RWJ Sports Physical Therapy at Princeton
743 Alexander Road
Suite 2
Princeton, NJ 08540
(609) 419-0455
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Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center Rehabilitation at the JCC MetroWest
760 Northfield Avenue, Suite 210A
West Orange, NJ 07052
(973) 325-9100
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Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center
94 Old Short Hills Road
Livingston, NJ 07039
(973) 322-5000
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Monmouth Medical Center
300 Second Avenue
Long Branch, NJ 07740
(732) 222-5200
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Clara Maass Medical Center
1 Clara Maass Drive
Belleville, NJ 07109
(973) 450-2000
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Community Medical Center
99 Highway 37 West
Toms River, NJ 08755
(732) 557-8000
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Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
201 Lyons Avenue at Osborne Terrace
Newark, NJ 07112
(973) 926-7000
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Children's Hospital of New Jersey at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
201 Lyons Avenue at Osborne Terrace
Newark, NJ 07112
(973) 926-7000
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Jersey City Medical Center
355 Grand Street
Jersey City, NJ 07302
(201) 915-2000
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The Bristol-Myers Squibb Children's Hospital at RWJUH
200 Somerset Street
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
(732) 828-3000
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RWJ University Hospital Rahway
865 Stone Street
Rahway, NJ 07065
(732) 381-4200
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RWJBarnabas Health at Exchange Place
95 Greene Street
Jersey City, NJ 07302
(201) 499-8720
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RWJ University Hospital Somerset
110 Rehill Avenue
Somerville, NJ 08876
(908) 685-2200
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Trinitas Regional Medical Center – Williamson Street Campus
225 Williamson St
Elizabeth, NJ 07202
(908) 994-5000
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The Unterberg Children's Hospital at Monmouth Medical Center
300 2nd Avenue
Long Branch, NJ 07740
(732) 923-7250
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Children's Specialized Hospital Outpatient Center – East Brunswick
645 State Route 18
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
(888) 244-5373
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RWJ Physical Therapy at Carteret
60 Cooke Avenue
Carteret, NJ 07008
(732) 969-8030
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RWJ Physical Therapy at Scotch Plains
2120 Lamberts Mill Road
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
(908) 389-5400
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Jersey City Medical Center's Ambulatory Care Center
395 Grand Street
Jersey City, NJ 07304
(201) 915-2410
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RWJ University Hospital Hamilton
1 Hamilton Health Place
Hamilton, NJ 08690
(609) 586-7900
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Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital
1 Robert Wood Johnson Place
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
(732) 828-3000
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Jersey City Medical Center Women's Health at Grove Street
116 Newark Avenue
(at Grove Street PATH Plaza)
Jersey City, NJ 07302
(201) 984-1270
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RWJ Hamilton Diagnostic & Treatment Center
1 Sheffield Drive
Suite 202
Columbus, NJ 08022
(609) 584-6640
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RWJ Rehabilitation - Columbus
1 Sheffield Drive
Columbus, NJ 08022
(609) 227-4592
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Jersey City Medical Center Outpatient Services at Colony Plaza
414 Grand Street
Suite 14
Jersey City, NJ 07302
(201) 616-0470
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Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus
600 River Avenue
Lakewood, NJ 08701
(732) 363-1900
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RWJ Rehabilitation - Hamilton
3100 Quakerbridge Road
Hamilton, NJ 08619
(609) 584-6640
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Children's Specialized Hospital Outpatient Center – Egg Harbor Township
6106 Black Horse Pike
Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
(609) 645-7779
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Children's Specialized Hospital Outpatient Center – Clifton
1135 Broad Street
Clifton, NJ 07013
(973) 365-3071
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Trinitas Children's Therapy Services
899 Mountain Ave
Suite 1-A
Springfield, NJ 07081
(973) 218-6394
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The Family Health Center (FHC) at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center
166 Lyons Avenue
Newark, NJ 07112
(973) 926-7000
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RWJ Physical Therapy at New Brunswick
100 Kirkpatrick Street
New Brunswick, NJ 08901
(732) 545-0494
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The Center for Ambulatory Surgery
1450 Route 22 West
Mountainside, NJ 07092
(888) 590-6849
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Short Hills Surgery Center
187 Millburn Avenue
Suite 102
Milburn, NJ 07041
(973) 671-0555
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Hudson Crossing Surgery Center
2 Executive Drive
Suite 102
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
(201) 470-6977
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RWJ Rehabilitation Lawrenceville
4152 Quakerbridge Road
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648
(609) 245-7420
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Cancer Center at RWJ Hamilton
2575 Klockner Road
Hamilton Township, NJ 08690
(609) 631-6960
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Children's Specialized Hospital Outpatient Center – Union
2840 Morris Avenue
Kenneth Esdale Pavilion
Union, NJ 07083
(888) 244-5373
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Jersey City Medical Center Rehabilitation Services
100 Town Square Place
Suite 208
Jersey City, NJ 07310
(201) 915-2000
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