Chronic knee pain is common — and not just among athletes. Knee pain is the reason for about 1/3 of all doctor’s visits for muscle and bone pain. Peter A. Matsuura, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon based in Hilo, Hawaii, has seen all types of knee injuries.

In addition to treating injuries to the shoulder, hip, elbow, wrist, hand, ankle, and foot, the orthopedic associates at Peter A. Matsuura, M.D. are experts at treating knee pain using non-surgical as well as state-of-the-art surgical techniques. Knee pain is often caused by kneeling and bending, prolonged sitting or driving, and going up and down stairs. Here are some other common causes of knee pain that Dr. Matsurra sees:

• Sports Injuries: Sprained ligaments, meniscus tears, tendonitis, and runner’s knee are some of the most common reasons for knee pain.
• Bursitis: Repeated kneeling and bending can irritate the bursa, a sac of fluid overlying the kneecap. Also known as "housemaid’s knee" or "preacher’s knee," bursitis causes pain and swelling.
• Iliotibial Band Syndrome: The iliotibial band runs from your hip down to the outer part of your knee. When it’s irritated by overuse, it can cause pain on the outer side of the knee.
• Osteoarthritis: Caused by aging joints, osteoarthritis symptoms include joint pain and stiffness. This condition is common among people who are over age 50.

When a patient comes to Peter A. Matsuura, M.D. for knee pain, the orthopedic associates usually treat it with anti-inflammatory medication, a brace, and simple exercises like single leg dips to help build up the quad muscles, as well as hamstring stretches.

For more information about how to treat knee pain or other sports injuries, visit Peter A. Matsuura, M.D. online or call the Hilo clinic at (808) 969-3331.