Knee Pain: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
Knee pain is a common issue affecting people of all ages and activity levels. It can result from injuries, overuse, or underlying medical conditions. Because the knee is a complex joint with bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage working together, even minor problems can impact daily activities like walking, running, or climbing stairs.
At Maywell Health, our pain management experts provide comprehensive guidance to help you understand the cause of your knee pain and connect you with the right treatment options.
What is Knee Pain?
The knee joint is a hinge that allows smooth movement of your legs. When something goes wrong in or around this joint, you may feel pain, stiffness, or swelling. Untreated knee pain can make even simple movements uncomfortable and can limit mobility over time.
Common Causes of Knee Pain
There are many potential causes of knee pain. Some of the most frequent include:
- Knee Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of cartilage in the knee, causing stiffness, swelling, and pain that worsens with activity.
- Knee Bursitis: Inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs around the knee, often caused by repetitive motion or prolonged pressure.
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: Pain at the front of the knee caused by misalignment of the kneecap, common in runners and active individuals.
- Other causes include ligament injuries, meniscus tears, tendonitis, and systemic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the underlying condition, but can include:
- Pain Location: Front, back, or sides of the knee.
- Type of Pain: Sharp, aching, or constant discomfort.
- Swelling: Mild to severe inflammation may occur.
- Stiffness: Difficulty walking, bending, or sitting comfortably.
- Cracking or Popping Sounds: Often noticed when moving the knee.
Condition-specific differences:
- Osteoarthritis often worsens with weight-bearing and improves with rest.
- Bursitis usually causes localized swelling and tenderness.
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome worsens with activity such as stairs, squatting, or running.
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Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the diagnosis, severity, and individual patient needs. General options include:
Conservative Care
- Rest & Activity Modification: Avoid movements that aggravate the knee.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen knee muscles and improve stability.
- Knee Braces: Provide support and reduce pain during daily activities.
Medications
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen to manage discomfort.
- Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Reduce swelling and pain.
- Prescription Medications: For severe or persistent pain under a doctor’s supervision.
Pain Interventions
- Corticosteroid Injections: Reduce inflammation in targeted areas.
- Ultrasound or Fluoroscopic-Guided Procedures: Ensure precise delivery of injections.
Surgical Procedures
- Knee Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive procedure to repair or remove damaged tissue.
- Knee Replacement: Replacement of severely damaged knee joints with artificial implants.
If your knee pain persists, consult a knee pain specialist for personalized evaluation and treatment.
Anatomy of the Knee
Understanding the knee’s structure helps explain why different conditions cause different symptoms:
- Knee Joint: The largest joint in the body, where thigh meets lower leg.
- Ligaments: Flexible tissues holding the knee together.
- Meniscus: C-shaped cartilage pads that absorb shock and reduce friction.
- Patella (Kneecap): Protects the knee joint and aids movement.
Self-Care & Prevention
You can reduce the risk or severity of knee pain by:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Strengthening thigh and hip muscles
- Wearing proper footwear
- Warming up before exercise
- Modifying activities to reduce stress on the knees
When to See a Specialist
Seek medical attention if you experience:
- Severe or sudden pain
- Inability to bear weight on the knee
- Swelling, redness, or warmth
- Persistent pain that interferes with daily life
A timely evaluation helps prevent further damage and promotes faster recovery. Schedule an appointment with a knee pain specialist today.
FAQ About Knee Pain
What is the most common cause of knee pain?
Osteoarthritis is the leading cause of chronic knee pain, particularly in adults over 50.
Can knee pain go away on its own?
Mild overuse injuries may improve with rest, but persistent pain usually indicates an underlying condition requiring treatment.
What specialist treats knee pain?
Pain management and orthopedic specialists evaluate and treat knee conditions using both nonsurgical and surgical methods.
For expert guidance on knee pain and related conditions, explore Maywell Health’s resources:
