What is Knee Pain?

Knee pain is a common condition that involves aching, stiffness, or discomfort around the knee joint. It may be caused by sudden injury, arthritis, or repetitive strain. Some patients experience sharp, localized pain, while others feel widespread discomfort that disrupts mobility. Left untreated, knee pain often worsens and can place added strain on nearby joints such as the hips and spine.

How Does Knee Pain Affect the Body?

Knee pain doesn’t just limit mobility, it can significantly affect your overall quality of life. Arthritis, injuries, or long-term wear may make walking, climbing stairs, or even standing uncomfortable. Over time, when one knee is favored, it can throw off your balance and posture, leading to issues like hip pain, back pain, stiffness, and swelling in the legs. If not addressed, these compensatory issues may create chronic discomfort and reduced activity levels.

A person holding their knee in pain with both hands, with the knee area highlighted in red to indicate pain or inflammation, against a grayscale background.

Common Causes of Knee Pain

Our San Marcos knee pain doctors treat a wide range of conditions, including:

  • Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
  • Sports Injuries: ACL or meniscus tears, sprains, fractures
  • Cartilage Damage: Including meniscus injuries
  • Bursitis: Pain caused by inflammation of the bursa sacs
  • Repetitive Stress Injuries: From running, lifting, or repetitive activity
  • Gout and Other Conditions: Pain from inflammatory disorders like gout
A person wearing black athletic shorts holding their thigh and knee in pain, standing outdoors near a body of water.

Symptoms of Knee Pain

Knee pain symptoms vary but often include:

  • Pain or aching during daily activities such as walking or climbing stairs
  • Stiffness after inactivity or rest
  • Swelling or inflammation around the knee joint
  • Instability, weakness, or limited flexibility in movement
  • Loss of range of motion
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Knee Pain Treatment in San Marcos

At Greater Austin Pain Center – San Marcos, we create treatment plans designed to address both immediate pain and long-term function. Options may include:

  • Imaging: CT scans, MRIs, or X-rays for precise diagnosis
  • Medication: NSAIDs, acetaminophen, or topical solutions for inflammation and pain
  • Joint Injections: Corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid to reduce swelling and improve mobility
  • Minimally Invasive Treatments: Such as nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation, or peripheral nerve stimulation for chronic pain management
  • Conservative Care: RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) paired with at-home modifications
  • Rehabilitation: Physical therapy and chiropractic adjustments for joint support and muscle strength
  • Complementary Care: Acupuncture, massage, or holistic therapies
  • Surgical Options: Orthopedic referrals for severe conditions unresponsive to other treatments

Am I at Risk for Knee Pain?

Knee pain is one of the most common conditions we treat at Greater Austin Pain Center in San Marcos. While anyone can develop it, some risk factors make pain more likely:

  • Excess weight: Increased body weight adds stress to the joint and accelerates wear and tear.
  • Prior injuries: Sprains, fractures, or meniscus tears can set the stage for recurring knee pain.
  • Repetitive use: Sports activities, physical labor, or repetitive motion can overwork the joint.
  • Sedentary lifestyle: Weak muscles from lack of activity reduce knee stability and increase strain.
  • Age and heredity: Cartilage naturally wears with age, and genetics may predispose you to joint issues.
  • Posture and gait issues: Poor alignment while standing or walking can put uneven pressure on the knees.
  • Surgical history: Previous knee procedures may affect long-term comfort and mobility.

By understanding these risk factors early, patients in San Marcos can take proactive steps to preserve joint health and reduce the chance of chronic pain.

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Why Choose the Greater Austin Pain Center in San Marcos?

Choosing the right knee pain doctor in San Marcos means finding a provider who can address both immediate discomfort and long-term joint health. At Greater Austin Pain Center, our specialists use advanced treatments to relieve pain, restore movement, and prevent further damage. From conservative options to minimally invasive procedures, we tailor every plan to the unique needs of our patients.

Our San Marcos clinic offers compassionate care from board-certified pain doctors with expertise in treating arthritis, injuries, and chronic conditions. With modern diagnostics and a focus on individualized care, we help patients regain mobility and return to their daily lives without unnecessary surgery.

Testimonials

5 gold stars

"I am so relieved I could cry! Finally a pain specialist who listens, cares, and wants to help! Dr. Alan Silberberg has given me so much hope! As someone who has seen pain specialists for decades in different states, this is where you want to come. You NEED him in your life! My only regret is not coming in sooner."

Sarah Jean C.
5 gold stars

"The staff is very friendly and I was seen on time. The intake process was seamless and efficient. Dr. Jarzombeck is always very kind and thorough in her explanations. These folks are a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend Greater Austin Pain Center and Dr. Jarzombeck!"

Kim D.
5 gold stars

"Everyone is always very nice and courteous. Dr. Julia is amazing! He is friendly, kind and caring and so easy to talk with.  All the office staff I have had contact with has always been courteous and kind as well. Would highly recommend coming here!"

Lesley C.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to see a doctor for knee pain?

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Yes. If your knee pain continues to worsen, limits your movement, or doesn’t improve with rest, it’s important to seek medical attention. Without treatment, knee problems can progress into chronic conditions that affect your overall joint health. At our San Marcos clinic, our knee pain specialists provide thorough diagnoses and targeted treatment plans to help prevent long-term damage.

Is surgery always required?

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No. Many patients in San Marcos find relief through non-surgical treatments such as injections, medications, or nerve blocks. Advanced therapies, including peripheral nerve stimulation, are also available for chronic pain relief. Surgery is typically considered only after conservative and minimally invasive options have been exhausted.

How do you diagnose knee pain?

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Our San Marcos knee pain doctors start with a full review of your medical history and a comprehensive physical exam. If needed, imaging tools like X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans are used to accurately diagnose the source of your pain, whether it’s arthritis, cartilage damage, or a sports-related injury. This detailed process ensures we create the most effective treatment plan possible for each patient.

Can I manage knee pain at home?

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While home care methods such as rest, ice, compression, elevation, and OTC pain relievers may provide temporary comfort, they don’t address the root cause of knee pain. For long-term relief, professional knee pain treatment in San Marcos provides tailored therapies that improve joint health, reduce inflammation, and restore mobility so you can get back to daily life.

Lunch & Learn With Our Doctors

Curious about interventional pain treatments in Austin, TX? Join our doctors for an in-person lunch and learn session to find out more about these treatments and ask any questions you may have. This event will be 12–1pm, sign up below to receive more details and RSVP.

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Schedule Your Knee Pain Appointment in San Marcos Today

You don’t have to live with knee pain. At Greater Austin Pain Center in San Marcos, our experienced doctors provide advanced treatments for arthritis, injuries, and chronic joint pain. We’re here to restore movement, reduce discomfort, and help you live more actively.

With locations across Austin, Kyle, Dripping Springs, and San Marcos, we make it convenient to get the care you need. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward pain relief.

Schedule an Appointment

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