5 Most Common Causes of Knee Pain

Do you have constant knee pain that is holding you back from doing the things you love? You are not alone. According to the Arthritis Foundation, the knee is one of the most susceptible joints to injury, due largely to its components and structure. The knee is formed by the thighbone, tibia, and fibula, making it the largest joint and load-bearing point in the body. Knee pain is common and experienced in levels such as mild, acute, or chronic due to injury, overuse, surgery, or another health condition. A variety of factors can cause knee pain, and it’s important to know what they are so that you can do your best to prevent it. Here are the top common causes of knee pain and some tips to help heal faster:

1. Trauma

Most knee injuries occur due to tears in the three main ligaments of the knee. These include the anterior cruciate ligament, medial collateral ligament, and posterior cruciate ligament. The anterior cruciate ligament, also known as the ACL, is prone to injury during sudden twisting motion or change in direction. Direct impacts such as a tackle during a football game, or a blow to the area can cause this as well. Activities that require the use of tendons such as jumping, running, or heavy lifting can result in tendon injuries that cause inflammation and knee pain. These injuries are common to athletes.

A good method for treating strains and sprains is the RICE Method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation). It can help reduce the pain resulting from a harsh impact. The first step is to rest your leg. After this it is important to apply ice to the area, and use a compression bandage to prevent inflammation. Then make sure to keep your leg elevated while resting.

2. Knee Bursitis

Knee Bursitis is caused by a variety of things. One of the most common causes is frequent and sustained pressure from kneeling, especially on hard surfaces. Another is overuse or strenuous activity. The bursae are small-fluid-containing sacs that act as shock absorbers and cushions on the outside of the knee joint. They help ligaments and tendons glide smoothly over the joints. Knee bursitis can result in severe pain, inflammation, stiffness, and warmth in the affected area. The RICE technique and splinting can help alleviate these symptoms.

3. Dislocated Kneecap

Often, a kneecap can slide out of place due to injury. However, a doctor can easily pop it back into place without any complications. While popping the dislocated kneecap back into place is simple, the experience of dislocation can be extremely painful. This injury can also rupture the blood vessels and nerves in the area, and emergency medical attention must be given to prevent further deterioration of the knee’s condition. A splint can be used to help the healing process after the dislocation has been corrected.

4. Fracture

A patellar fracture is a break in the patella, or kneecap, which is the small bone that sits at the front of your knee.The kneecap is susceptible to fractures, especially in people with osteoporosis or other health conditions that weaken the bones. Physical therapy can help to correct minor fractures, along with rest, light exercise, topical use of ointments, and splints.

5. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common degenerative tissue disorders that causes knee pain, especially in the elderly. This disease damages the cartilage and surrounding tissues, causing pain, stiffness, inflammation, and reduced range of motion. Osteoarthritis has no cure, but light exercise, physical therapy, and ginger extract can help reduce the symptoms.

Some of the warning signs and symptoms that accompany knee pain are inflammation, stiffness, warmth, weakness, redness, popping, decreased the range of motion, and instability. If you are experiencing any of these things there is no reason to wait and endure the pain. Click here to get more information on controlling your pain.

If you are feeling any of these side effects, we want to help! For a limited time, call our office at (425) 224-2476 and schedule a free exam. We will diagnose and treat to help you get back on the track to feeling better.