Knee pain is a prevalent issue that can significantly impact your ability to walk, climb stairs, or engage in physical activities. The knee is a complex joint that bears much of your body weight, and it’s essential for various movements. Pain in the knee can result from injuries, overuse, or underlying health conditions, affecting people of all ages. Symptoms of knee pain may include swelling, stiffness, and difficulty bending or straightening the knee. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are vital for managing knee pain effectively and maintaining an active lifestyle.
- Arthritis: Conditions like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis cause inflammation in the knee joint, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness.
- Meniscus Tears: Damage to the cartilage that cushions the knee joint, often due to twisting or heavy lifting, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee.
- Ligament Injuries: Sprains or tears in the knee ligaments, such as the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament), usually from sports injuries or accidents, leading to instability and severe pain.
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the knee, often due to overuse or repetitive movements, resulting in pain and tenderness.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction in the knee, causing pain and swelling.
- Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper's Knee): Inflammation of the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone, common in athletes who perform frequent jumping.
- Iliotibial Band Syndrome: Irritation of the iliotibial band, a ligament that runs along the outside of the thigh, leading to pain on the outer side of the knee.
- Fractures: Breaks in the bones of the knee, usually from trauma or falls, causing intense pain and difficulty moving the knee.