Knee Pain

Knee pain can make everyday activities, such as walking, standing, or even bending, difficult and frustrating. Pain in your knees may develop gradually due to conditions like arthritis or result from an old injury or general wear and tear.

Over time, untreated knee pain can limit your mobility and impact your overall quality of life, making it essential to find the right treatment early on.

At CAM Medical Group, we specialize in non-surgical knee pain treatments that can help you move comfortably again. Our advanced approach includes minimally invasive and FDA-approved treatments designed to lubricate the knee joint and reduce pain.

Causes of Your Knee Pain

Knee pain can arise from a variety of factors, including chronic conditions, injuries, and lifestyle influences. Understanding the root cause of your discomfort is the first step toward effective treatment.

Here are some of the most common reasons you may experience knee pain.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that develops as the protective cartilage in the knee gradually breaks down. Over time, the cushioning diminishes, causing the bones in the joints to rub against each other, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the knee joint. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic inflammation, pain, and potential joint damage.
Knee injuries can occur from sudden movement, falls, or sports activities. They may range from mild sprains and strains to more severe ligament damage. These injuries can cause instability, swelling, and long-term discomfort.
Tendonitis is a condition that occurs when the knee tendons, which connect muscles to bones, become irritated or inflamed. It is especially common in athletes and people who put frequent stress on their knees.
Bursitis involves inflammation of the small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that act as cushions between bones and soft tissues in joints, helping reduce friction during movement. When the bursa becomes inflamed, knee movement can feel painful and stiff.
Repetitive stress injuries develop from jobs or activities that involve frequent kneeling, squatting, or heavy lifting. These motions can put excessive strain on the knee, increasing the risk of chronic pain and inflammation.
Excess weight can stress your knee joints. This can accelerate cartilage breakdown and increase the risk of osteoarthritis and other knee conditions. Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce strain and prevent further damage.
Genetics can play a role in knee health. Some people may be genetically predisposed to knee conditions, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. If knee problems run in your family, you may have a higher risk of developing similar issues.
Age-related wear and tear is a natural part of aging, especially for those who are active or have a history of knee injuries. Over time, the cartilage protecting the joints can thin out, causing increased friction, pain, and stiffness.

The Role of Synovial Fluid in Your Knee Health

Synovial fluid, found within the knee joint, plays a crucial role in keeping your knees healthy and moving smoothly. This thick, gel-like substance surrounds and lubricates the joint, reducing bone friction and delivering vital nutrients to the cartilage.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a key component of synovial fluid. It provides cushioning and shock absorption to protect knees from stress and impact. However, conditions like osteoarthritis or joint injuries can disrupt the balance of synovial fluid by lowering HA levels.

As a result, the synovial fluid becomes thinner and less effective, leading to increased friction between bones. This causes them to rub and grind against each other, triggering inflammation, stiffness, and pain.

Over time, even simple movements, like getting out of a car, climbing stairs, or kneeling down, can become difficult and painful. If left untreated, this can lead to chronic pain that interferes with sleep and makes every step a struggle.

Symptoms of Knee Conditions

Common symptoms of knee conditions include:

Pain or tenderness in and around the knee joint
Swelling or stiffness in the knee, making movement difficult
Clicking, popping, or grinding sensations when bending or straightening the knee
Weakness or instability, feeling like the knee might "give out"
Limited range of motion, making it hard to fully extend or bend the knee

Your symptoms can vary in severity depending on the cause.

Diagnosing Your Knee Pain

An accurate diagnosis is the first step toward finding the right treatment for your knee pain. At CAM Medical Group, we take a detailed and thorough approach to identify the root cause of your discomfort.

Our physicians begin by reviewing your medical history and conducting a physical examination to assess your knee’s range of motion, strength, stability, and areas of tenderness.

To get a clearer picture, we may also use our ultrasound imaging options to help visualize the internal structures of the knee in real-time. If needed, we may also recommend additional tests, such as blood work to check for infections and inflammation.

Non-Surgical Knee Pain Treatment Options

At CAM Medical Group, we provide effective, non-surgical treatments to relieve knee pain, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility. Our approach focuses on precisely targeted, minimally invasive options that help you manage your symptoms without the risks and downtime associated with surgery.

We also offer non-invasive knee pain treatments that can be used alone or in combination with our minimally invasive options for better results:

Medications – Over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness. These medications can be a helpful short-term solution for managing knee discomfort.
Physical Therapy – Strengthening the muscles around the knee is crucial for improving stability and reducing strain on the joint. We can guide you through targeted physical therapy exercises designed to enhance mobility, flexibility, and overall knee function.
Bracing & Support Devices – Knee braces or compression sleeves can provide extra stability and support, helping to alleviate symptoms and prevent further strain on the joints. Our team will assess your needs and recommend the best options for additional knee support.

Hyaluronic Acid Injections for Knee Pain

At CAM Medical Group, one of our primary non-surgical treatments for knee pain is hyaluronic acid (HA) injections. This FDA-approved treatment provides a safe and effective way to reduce pain and improve mobility without the need for surgery.

Hyaluronic acid injections, also known as viscosupplementation, use naturally derived HA fluid to help replenish lost joint lubrication and improve function. These injections can help:

Restore lubrication: It reduces bone friction, allowing for smoother and more comfortable movement.
Enhance shock absorption: It improves the joint’s ability to cushion impact, reducing strain on bones during daily activities.
Reduces inflammation: It contains mild anti-inflammatory properties that help decrease swelling and discomfort.
Improves mobility: It relieves stiffness in the joint, making movement easier and less painful.

Our experienced providers use advanced digital imaging to ensure precise, targeted delivery of HA injections into the affected knee joint for maximum effectiveness.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Hyaluronic acid injections are performed in-office and take just a few minutes. Here is what you can expect during the procedure:

The area around your knee is disinfected to prevent infection.
A local anesthetic may be applied to numb the area and minimize discomfort.
Our provider uses advanced digital imaging (such as ultrasound) to guide the injection with extreme precision into the affected area. This imaging-guided precision makes the treatment effective, as it helps deliver the medication exactly where needed for optimal relief.
After the procedure, you can return home the same day and even drive yourself home if needed.

The entire procedure is typically completed within 30 minutes. Most patients find it quick, simple, and easy to fit into their day, with minimal disruption to their routine.

Light daily activities, such as walking, can be resumed immediately, but strenuous exercise and high-impact movements should be avoided for at least two days. Some patients experience mild pain and swelling at the site of injection, which typically resolves quickly.

You will experience gradual pain relief and improved mobility in the weeks following treatment.

Hyaluronic Acid Injections Over Surgery

HA injections are an excellent option for patients looking for a non-surgical treatment option for knee pain. Unlike knee replacement surgery, which involves a long recovery period and potential risks, HA injections:

Are effective and offer long-lasting pain relief
Are a quick, in-office procedure involving minimal downtime
Do not involve hospitalization or extensive rehabilitation
Have a lower risk of complications like infections or blood clots
Improve knee function, allowing for easier movement and daily activities

By improving lubrication and cushioning in your knee joint, these injections can help you to stay active and delay or even avoid the need for knee surgery. However, it is important to note that HA injections are only an option if you have not had knee surgery.

Once a knee has undergone surgical intervention, your joint structure changes and HA injections can no longer be effective. That is why it is crucial to consider this treatment early before surgery becomes necessary, so you have more options for managing your knee pain.

Insurance Coverage

Most major insurance providers cover hyaluronic acid injections for knee pain, making them an accessible treatment option for many patients. However, coverage can vary depending on your plan and medical necessity requirements. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm coverage details.

At CAM Medical Group, our providers are in-network with most major commercial insurance, Medicare.

Effective Treatment for Knee Pain in North & West Chicago

Living with knee pain can make even the simplest activities challenging. At CAM Medical Group, we provide expert, non-surgical knee pain treatments designed to relieve pain and help you regain your range of movement.

We are committed to making your experience as easy as possible, so our team is proud to offer bilingual support in English and Spanish. For your convenience, we also offer flexible scheduling options, including Saturday hours and walk-in availability.

To schedule a consultation, please call us or request an appointment online. Alternatively, you can walk into our clinic on W Wilson Ave or N Western Ave in Chicago.

FAQs

What types of knee pain can HA injections help with?

Hyaluronic acid injections can help people with knee pain caused by osteoarthritis, joint wear and tear, or previous injuries. If you experience stiffness, discomfort, or reduced mobility during everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, or kneeling, this treatment may help improve your movement and reduce pain.

Can HA injections relieve knee pain without surgery?

Yes. At CAM Medical Group, we offer HA injections as a non-surgical option for knee pain relief. These injections restore natural lubrication in your knee, helping to reduce pain and improve function without the risks, downtime, or long recovery that come with surgery.

Can I just manage my knee pain on my own without HA injections?

While pain relievers and ice packs may offer temporary relief, they don’t stop the underlying wear and tear on your joints.

Ignoring knee pain might seem like the easier option, but it can lead to long-term damage. Over time, the loss of lubrication in your knee joint can lead to more stiffness, reduced mobility, and even irreversible joint deterioration. Without proper treatment, continued wear and tear can make everyday activities difficult.

Hyaluronic acid injections help replenish lost joint fluid, improving lubrication and cushioning to reduce pain and stiffness. At CAM Medical Group, we offer HA injections to reduce knee pain and stiffness and protect your knee health for the long term.

How long do the effects of HA injections last?

The benefits of HA injections can last for several months, depending on factors like the severity of your condition and your joint health. Many patients experience a gradual improvement in comfort and mobility over time.

Are HA injections a safe treatment option?

Yes! HA injections are FDA-approved and have been safely used for years to manage knee pain. Side effects are rare and typically mild, such as slight swelling or discomfort at the injection site, which usually resolves quickly.

Can HA injections help delay or avoid knee surgery?

For many patients, HA injections provide enough relief to postpone or even eliminate the need for knee surgery. By restoring lubrication and reducing joint stress, this treatment can help you stay active and manage pain without undergoing an invasive procedure.

How soon can I return to normal activities after an injection?

Most patients can go home immediately after the procedure and resume light activities. Some may experience mild swelling or discomfort, which can be managed with ice (wrapped in a towel). You should avoid heavy use of the knee for about 48 hours after the treatment. However, light walking is fine.

Do HA injections hurt?

Most patients find the procedure very tolerable. We use a local anesthetic to numb the area before the injection, ensuring minimal discomfort. You may feel slight pressure or a pinch during the procedure, but the injection is usually not painful.

Does insurance cover HA injections?

Most major insurance providers cover HA injections for knee pain, making them an accessible treatment option for many patients. At CAM Medical Group, we are in-network with most major commercial insurance plans, Medicare, and Medicaid. Our team will help you check your benefits and navigate the insurance process.