Treatment for Kneecap Pain

Knee pain is one of the most common, and most frustrating, problems for adults. If one is lucky enough to make it to middle age, arthritis in the knee is almost inevitable. The way the joint is built lends itself to injury, but there are ways to deal with knee pain and pain in the kneecap.

NSAIDs--Your New Best Friend

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the best first option for kneecap pain. These drugs are made specifically to reduce swelling and stiffness, allowing for increased motion and improved pain control. Drugs that fall into this category include ibuprofen, Aleve, aspirin and Tylenol. Check with your doctor on dosing and side effects, as well as risks associated with these drugs, and be sure to follow dosing guidelines carefully, as overdose can cause toxicity.

Use the I.C.E. Method

• Another treatment that can provide near instant relief is the I.C.E. method: ice, compress and elevate. Begin by getting off the knee, then elevating it to above hip level. Apply a cold pack--an ice pack or bag of frozen peas--to the affected knee and keep it on for about 20 minutes. Finally, wrap the knee in a compression bandage to provide kneecap support while you are experiencing pain.

See a Bone Doctor

• If you have used these methods and are still experiencing kneecap pain, it may be time to see an orthopedic specialist. Many people fear seeing a doctor because they believe surgery is the only option these doctors consider. Nothing could be further from the truth. Most doctors will exhaust all other avenues of treatment before considering surgery. Everything from physical therapy to specially prepared braces and medication will be tried to alleviate your pain before surgery is discussed. In addition, once a doctor has clear images of your kneecap through X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), it will be easier to diagnosis the problem and a develop a path to recovery.