Where to Find More Information about Knee Problems?

Knee pain is an extremely common complaint, and there are many causes. It is important to make an accurate diagnosis of the cause of your symptoms so that appropriate treatment can be directed at the cause. If you have knee pain, here are some good sources for additional information:

The clearinghouse provides information about various forms of arthritis and rheumatic disease and bone, muscle, and skin diseases. It distributes patient and professional education materials and refers people to other sources of information. Additional information and updates can also be found on the NIAMS Web site.

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons P.O. Box 2058 Des Plaines, IL 60017 Phone: 800-824-BONE (2663) (free of charge) www.aaos.org

The academy provides education and practice management services for orthopaedic surgeons and allied health professionals. It also serves as an advocate for improved patient care and informs the public about the science of orthopaedics. The orthopaedist's scope of practice includes disorders of the body's bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. For a single copy of an AAOS brochure, send a self-addressed stamped envelope to the address above or visit the AAOS Web site.

American College of Rheumatology 1800 Century Place, Suite 250 Atlanta, GA 30329 Phone: 404-633-3777 Fax: 404-633-1870 www.rheumatology.org

This national professional organization can provide referrals to rheumatologists and allied health professionals, such as physical therapists. One-page fact sheets are available on various forms of arthritis. Lists of specialists by geographic area and fact sheets are also available on this Web site.

American Physical Therapy Association 1111 N. Fairfax Street Alexandria, VA 22314 Phone: 800-999-APTA (2782) (free of charge) www.apta.org

The association publishes a free brochure titled "Taking Care of the Knees."

Arthritis Foundation 1330 West Peachtree Street Atlanta, GA 30309 Phone: 404-872-7100 or 800-283-7800 (free of charge) or call your local chapter (listed in the local telephone directory) www.arthritis.org

The foundation has several free brochures about coping with arthritis, taking nonsteroid and steroid medicines, and exercise. A free brochure on protecting your joints is titled "Using Your Joints Wisely." The foundation also can provide addresses and phone numbers for local chapters and physician and clinic referrals.