Knee pain is a common issue affecting millions of people across all age groups. Whether you’re a sportsperson, an office-goer, or a senior citizen, chances are you’ve experienced some form of knee discomfort in your life. According to Dr. Khitish Mohanty, a renowned orthopaedic surgeon with years of experience in diagnosing and treating joint-related issues, knee pain should never be ignored.

Dr. Khitish Mohanty is a renowned specialist in diagnosing and treating complex pelvis conditions. He offers expert care for pelvic fractures, deformities, and pain syndromes with advanced surgical methods.

In this blog, Dr. Mohanty shares expert insights into the causes, prevention, and treatment of knee pain—helping you understand when to worry, what to do, and how to protect your knees for a pain-free life.

Understanding the Root Causes of Knee Pain

Dr. Khitish Mohanty emphasizes that identifying the underlying cause of knee pain is the first and most critical step in treating it effectively. Here are some common causes:

1. Osteoarthritis – One of the most frequent causes in older adults. The cartilage wears away, leading to stiffness, swelling, and pain.
2. Ligament Injuries – Such as ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears, common in athletes and those involved in high-impact activities.
3. Meniscus Tears – Often due to twisting movements or degeneration over time.
4. Tendonitis – Inflammation of the tendons caused by overuse or poor biomechanics.
5. Bursitis – Swelling in the bursae (fluid-filled sacs), usually due to repetitive stress.
6. Obesity and Poor Posture – Added weight and bad walking or sitting habits can put excessive pressure on the knee joints.

“Every knee has a story,” says Dr. Mohanty. “And understanding that story helps in tailoring the right treatment for each patient.”

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When to Seek Medical Help

According to Dr. Mohanty, not all knee pain requires surgical intervention, but you should consult a doctor if:

• Pain persists beyond a few days
• You experience swelling or redness
• There’s a popping sound or sensation during movement
• You cannot fully straighten or bend your knee
• The knee feels unstable or gives out during activity

Ignoring these signs can lead to worsening of the condition, making recovery more complicated and prolonged.

Non-Surgical Solutions That Work

Many patients fear that a visit to an orthopaedic doctor will lead straight to the operating room. However, Dr. Khitish Mohanty assures that most knee issues can be treated conservatively, especially in the early stages.

Here are some non-surgical treatments he often recommends:

1. R.I.C.E. Therapy

Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation — the golden rule for managing pain and swelling in the initial stages.

2. Physical Therapy

A well-structured physiotherapy program can help strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and reduce pressure on the joint.

3. Weight Management

Even a small reduction in body weight can significantly reduce stress on the knees. Dr. Mohanty often says, “For every kilogram lost, the pressure on your knee drops by 4 kilograms.”

4. Orthotic Supports

Using braces, insoles, or supports can help align the knee properly and prevent further damage.

5. Medications and Injections

Anti-inflammatory drugs, lubricating injections, or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy are effective in reducing inflammation and promoting healing.

Lifestyle Tips to Protect Your Knees

Dr. Mohanty shares a few simple yet effective lifestyle changes to prevent knee pain or keep it from recurring:

• Warm up before exercise and cool down afterward
• Avoid sudden movements or impact-based sports without proper training
• Strengthen your quadriceps and hamstrings through targeted workouts
• Choose low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, or walking over running
• Use proper footwear that supports your posture and gait
• Avoid prolonged sitting or kneeling without movement

“Your knees were designed to move,” says Dr. Mohanty. “Keep them active but treat them kindly.”

When Surgery Becomes Necessary

Despite all efforts, some conditions—especially severe osteoarthritis or complete ligament tears—may require surgical intervention. Dr. Mohanty specializes in advanced techniques such as:

• Arthroscopy – A minimally invasive procedure used to treat meniscus tears, remove damaged cartilage, or repair ligaments.
• Total or Partial Knee Replacement – For patients with advanced joint degeneration, this procedure can offer significant pain relief and restore mobility.

“Today’s surgical techniques are more precise, less invasive, and have shorter recovery times,” Dr. Mohanty explains. “The key is choosing surgery at the right time—not too late when damage becomes irreversible.”

Final Words from Dr. Mohanty

Dr. Khitish Mohanty encourages patients not to live in silence with chronic knee pain. “Pain is your body’s way of asking for help,” he says. “Ignoring it only delays healing. With the right approach, most knee problems can be managed effectively—without fear.”

So, if you’re experiencing discomfort, stiffness, or instability in your knees, take that first step. Listen to your body. Seek expert advice. And remember: early diagnosis and preventive care are the best tools you have to maintain a healthy, active life.