Knee Pain
Knee pain is a common complaint that can affect people of all ages and activity levels. It can be caused by a wide range of factors, including:
- Injuries: Such as ligament sprains or tears (e.g., ACL tear), meniscus tears, tendonitis, or fractures.
- Overuse: Repetitive activities or excessive strain on the knee joint, commonly seen in athletes or individuals with jobs that require repetitive knee movements.
- Osteoarthritis: A degenerative joint disease that causes the breakdown of cartilage in the knee joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.
- Rheumatoid arthritis: An autoimmune condition that affects the lining of the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and joint damage.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint.
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner's knee): Pain around the kneecap that often worsens with activities such as running, jumping, or prolonged sitting.
- Iliotibial (IT) band syndrome: Inflammation of the IT band, a thick band of tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh and can cause pain on the outer side of the knee.
Symptoms of knee pain can vary depending on the underlying cause but may include pain, swelling, stiffness, weakness, popping or clicking sensations, and difficulty bearing weight or fully extending the knee.
Treatment for knee pain depends on the cause and severity of the condition but may include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice or heat therapy
- Over-the-counter pain medications
- Physical therapy exercises to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility
- Knee braces or supports
- Corticosteroid injections for inflammation
- Surgical interventions, such as arthroscopy, ligament reconstruction, or knee replacement surgery, may be necessary in severe cases or when conservative treatments are ineffective.
It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific condition and needs.
Category:Orthopaedic
