Knee Injuries and Conditions: Knee Pain
Knee pain is a common complaint that affects people of all ages. Knee pain can result from an injury, such as a ruptured ligament or torn cartilage, or from medical conditions like arthritis, gout, and infections.
While many types of minor knee pain respond well to self-care measures, physical therapy, and knee braces, some cases may require surgical repair.
How do knee injuries and conditions usually occur?
Knee injuries can occur due to a sudden injury or repetitive stress. These injuries may include ligament tears, fractures, and dislocations. Here’s a breakdown of common causes:
Acute Conditions
- ACL Injury: Caused by sudden changes in direction, common in sports like soccer, basketball, and football.
- Fractures: Often result from falls, auto accidents, or osteoporosis.
- Torn Meniscus: Typically due to twisting the knee while bearing weight.
- Knee Bursitis: Inflammation caused by repetitive motion or direct impact.
- Patellar Tendinitis: Common in runners, jumpers, and athletes who engage in high-impact activities.
Chronic Conditions
- Osteoarthritis: Wear-and-tear condition causing deterioration of knee cartilage.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease affecting knee joints.
- Gout and Pseudogout: Caused by crystal buildup in the knee joint.
- Septic Arthritis: Infection in the knee joint leading to severe pain and swelling.
Other Conditions
- Loose Body: Fragments of bone or cartilage floating in the knee joint space.
- Iliotibial Band Syndrome: Tightness of the iliotibial band causing pain.
- Dislocated Kneecap: Patella slips out of place, often due to injury.
How do knee injuries and conditions usually occur?
Knee injuries can occur due to a sudden injury or repetitive stress. These injuries may include ligament tears, fractures, and dislocations. Here’s a breakdown of common causes:
Acute Conditions
- ACL Injury: Caused by sudden changes in direction, common in sports like soccer, basketball, and football.
- Fractures: Often result from falls, auto accidents, or osteoporosis.
- Torn Meniscus: Typically due to twisting the knee while bearing weight.
- Knee Bursitis: Inflammation caused by repetitive motion or direct impact.
- Patellar Tendinitis: Common in runners, jumpers, and athletes who engage in high-impact activities.
Chronic Conditions
- Osteoarthritis: Wear-and-tear condition causing deterioration of knee cartilage.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease affecting knee joints.
- Gout and Pseudogout: Caused by crystal buildup in the knee joint.
- Septic Arthritis: Infection in the knee joint leading to severe pain and swelling.
Other Conditions
- Loose Body: Fragments of bone or cartilage floating in the knee joint space.
- Iliotibial Band Syndrome: Tightness of the iliotibial band causing pain.
- Dislocated Kneecap: Patella slips out of place, often due to injury.
Common Knee Injuries & Conditions
Treated at Synergy Health Partners
Understanding the Anatomy of the Knee
The knee is a complex joint made up of several components that work together to enable movement and provide stability.
Regions of the Knee
- Femur (Thighbone)
- Tibia (Shinbone)
- Patella (Kneecap)
Parts of the Knee
- Bones: Femur, tibia, and patella.
- Cartilage: Articular cartilage and meniscus.
- Ligaments: Collateral and cruciate ligaments.
- Tendons: Quadriceps and patellar tendons.
Who Gets Knee Pain?
Knee pain can affect individuals of all ages and activity levels, from athletes to those with arthritis.
- Athletes: Higher risk of ligament and tendon injuries.
- Older Adults: More likely to experience arthritis-related knee pain.
- Workers: Jobs requiring repetitive knee movement increase the risk of knee injuries.
Types of Knee Pain
- Acute: Sudden injury causing immediate pain.
- Chronic: Ongoing pain due to conditions like arthritis.
Symptoms of Knee Pain
- Swelling and stiffness
- Redness and warmth
- Weakness or instability
- Popping or crunching noises
- Inability to fully straighten the knee
Causes of Knee Pain
- Sports injuries
- Accidents and falls
- Repetitive motion or overuse
- Medical conditions like arthritis
Understanding the Anatomy of the Knee
The knee is a complex joint made up of several components that work together to enable movement and provide stability.
Regions of the Knee
- Femur (Thighbone)
- Tibia (Shinbone)
- Patella (Kneecap)
Parts of the Knee
- Bones: Femur, tibia, and patella.
- Cartilage: Articular cartilage and meniscus.
- Ligaments: Collateral and cruciate ligaments.
- Tendons: Quadriceps and patellar tendons.
Who Gets Knee Pain?
Knee pain can affect individuals of all ages and activity levels, from athletes to those with arthritis.
- Athletes: Higher risk of ligament and tendon injuries.
- Older Adults: More likely to experience arthritis-related knee pain.
- Workers: Jobs requiring repetitive knee movement increase the risk of knee injuries.
Types of Knee Pain
- Acute: Sudden injury causing immediate pain.
- Chronic: Ongoing pain due to conditions like arthritis.
Symptoms of Knee Pain
- Swelling and stiffness
- Redness and warmth
- Weakness or instability
- Popping or crunching noises
- Inability to fully straighten the knee
Causes of Knee Pain
- Sports injuries
- Accidents and falls
- Repetitive motion or overuse
- Medical conditions like arthritis
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if you:
- Can’t bear weight on your knee
- Have significant swelling
- Are unable to extend or flex your knee
- Notice deformity in your leg or knee
- Experience severe pain with fever
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