NYC & Stamford, CT
Knee Pain Diagnosis & Treatment
Knee pain is one of the most common reasons active adults seek orthopedic care. Whether it comes on gradually or follows an injury, persistent knee pain that interferes with daily life deserves expert evaluation. Dr. McLawhorn specializes in diagnosing the full spectrum of knee conditions and developing personalized treatment plans — from conservative care through advanced joint replacement.
Understanding Your Knee
The knee is a hinge joint formed by the lower femur (thigh bone) and upper tibia (shin bone). The kneecap (patella) sits in front, acting like a pulley to improve your ability to straighten the leg. The joint is cushioned by cartilage and two C-shaped shock absorbers called menisci, stabilized by four major ligaments (ACL, PCL, MCL, LCL), and enclosed in a fluid-filled capsule that lubricates and nourishes the joint. The knee is typically described as having three compartments — medial (inside), lateral (outside), and patellofemoral (front) — and the pattern of disease across these compartments guides treatment decisions.
Common Causes of Knee Pain
Knee arthritis — osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis
Meniscus tears
Ligament injuries (ACL, MCL)
Bursitis or tendinitis
Patellar instability
Overuse injuries — IT band syndrome, patellofemoral pain syndrome
Prior injury that did not heal properly
Malalignment of the leg or excess weight
When to See a Specialist
See Dr. McLawhorn if knee pain persists more than a few weeks, interferes with daily activities or exercise, wakes you from sleep, requires prescription medication, or if you experience significant swelling, warmth, instability, or the knee catching or giving way.
How Dr. McLawhorn Diagnoses Knee Pain
X-rays: Primary tool for evaluating joint space, bone quality, and arthritis severity
MRI: Soft tissue evaluation — cartilage, menisci, ligaments, tendons
CT: Selected for complex surgical planning
Blood work or injections: Occasionally needed to rule out inflammatory or infectious causes
Treatment Options
Physical therapy, weight management, anti-inflammatory medications, gel injections, cortisone injections, and PRP therapy — all offered in-office by Dr. McLawhorn.
Surgical
Partial knee replacement (single-compartment disease) or total knee replacement (multi-compartment advanced arthritis).