The causes of knee pain are highly diverse, ranging from mild discomfort to debilitating agony. But there are certain signs, symptoms, and factors that can help you assess if your knee pain is severe and requires professional medical attention. The first factor to consider is the severity and duration of the pain. If the pain is sharp, intense, appears abruptly, and doesn't subside after a few days, it may be an indication of a serious problem such as a fracture, ligament tear, or dislocation. Persistent pain that hinders your ability to walk, stand, or bear weight on your knee signals a potential underlying issue. This could be due to a cartilage tear, meniscus injury, osteoarthritis, or a ligament tear. If your knee pain is accompanied by fever, chills, redness, swelling, or warmth around the knee, it could signify an infection that our team can address promptly. We also have the expertise to evaluate any numbness or tingling down the leg associated with knee pain, which may indicate nerve or vascular involvement. In instances where your knee pain is the result of an injury and it is not improving over time despite rest, ice, or over-the-counter pain relievers, it's advisable to seek medical attention. At Advanced Wellness Center, we can help manage persistent pain that may indicate a chronic condition such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or other joint disorders. Difficulty in bending as well as straightening the knee due to stiffness or locking of the joint is another sign that your knee pain could be severe. Our team is equipped to treat conditions such as meniscus tear or loose bone or cartilage within the joint. We encourage you to never ignore severe, persistent, or concerning symptoms.