Comprehensive Approach to Knee Pain Evaluation

Initial Assessment

• The American College of Rheumatology recommends obtaining detailed information about previous treatments and their effectiveness in patients with knee pain 1
• The American College of Rheumatology suggests considering the impact on daily activities and quality of life in patients with knee pain 2

Management Approach Based on Diagnosis

Osteoarthritis

• The European League Against Rheumatism recommends first-line treatment with exercise therapy, weight loss, education, and self-management programs for osteoarthritis 1
• The American College of Rheumatology suggests starting pharmacological treatment with paracetamol, and considering NSAIDs if ineffective, for osteoarthritis 1, 2
• The American College of Rheumatology recommends considering intra-articular corticosteroid injections for flares, especially with effusion, in osteoarthritis 1, 2

Physical Examination

• The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends strength testing of quadriceps and hamstrings as part of a systematic physical examination for knee pain 3