Knee Pain is a common condition that affects people of all ages and can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. The knee joint is one of the largest and most complex joints in the body, providing stability and facilitating movement. Knee joint plays a crucial role in supporting body weight and facilitating movement, making it susceptible to stress and strain however, due to its intricate structure and the amount of stress it endures, the knee is susceptible to various injuries and conditions that can lead to pain and discomfort.

Knee pain is a widespread issue that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It can occur in isolation or as a symptom of an underlying condition or injury. The impact of knee pain on daily life can be significant, limiting a person's ability to walk, climb stairs, participate in sports, or perform routine tasks comfortably. Age-related factors contribute to the prevalence of knee pain, as it becomes more common with advancing age due to natural wear and tear on the joint, as well as the development of conditions such as osteoarthritis. Additionally, athletes and individuals engaged in high-impact activities are at a higher risk of experiencing knee pain due to the repetitive stress and strain placed on the joint.

The good news is that many cases of knee pain are treatable. With proper diagnosis, management, and appropriate treatment measures, individuals can find relief and improve their knee function.

Symptoms of Knee Pain 

Knee pain can manifest in various ways, and the specific symptoms experienced may vary depending on the underlying cause. Here are some common symptoms associated with knee pain:

• Pain: Knee pain may range from mild to severe and can be localized or diffuse. The pain may be sharp, dull, throbbing, or achy in nature. It can be present at rest or worsen with movement or weight-bearing activities.
• Swelling: The knee joint may become swollen, leading to visible or palpable enlargement. Swelling can be a result of inflammation, fluid accumulation, or joint damage.
• Stiffness: Individuals with knee pain may experience stiffness in the joint, making it difficult to fully bend or straighten the knee. Stiffness is often more pronounced after periods of inactivity, such as after waking up in the morning or sitting for a prolonged time.
• Instability: Some individuals with knee pain may feel a sense of instability or the knee giving way. This can occur due to ligamentous laxity, joint damage, or muscle weakness.
• Limited Range of Motion: Knee pain can restrict the normal range of motion of the joint. It may become challenging to fully flex or extend the knee, leading to decreased mobility.
• Clicking or Popping sensations: Some individuals may experience clicking, popping, or grinding sensations within the knee joint during movement. These sensations can be associated with underlying structural abnormalities or cartilage damage.
• Difficulty Bearing Weight: Severe knee pain can make it challenging to bear weight on the affected leg. This can lead to limping or favoring the opposite leg to alleviate pressure on the painful knee.
• Redness and Warmth: Inflammatory conditions or infections affecting the knee joint may cause redness and warmth around the area. These symptoms are often accompanied by pain and swelling.

The specific symptoms experienced may vary depending on the underlying cause of knee pain. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan based on individual symptoms and circumstances.

Causes of Knee Pain 

Knee pain can arise from a variety of causes, ranging from acute injuries to chronic conditions. Understanding the underlying causes can help in determining appropriate treatment and management strategies. Here are some common causes of knee pain:

• Knee Injuries:Various injuries can cause knee pain, such as ligament tears (e.g., ACL or MCL tears), meniscus tears, and tendon injuries (e.g., patellar tendonitis). These injuries often occur due to sudden twisting or impact on the knee joint during sports or accidents.Acute injuries, such as ligament sprains, meniscus tears, or fractures, can lead to knee pain. .
• Osteoarthritis: : Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that commonly affects the knee. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the bones within the joint gradually wears away, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation in multiple joints, including the knees. It can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, and joint deformities.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: This condition involves pain around the kneecap (patella) and is often caused by overuse, muscle imbalances, or abnormal tracking of the kneecap. Activities that involve repetitive knee movements, such as running or jumping, can contribute to this condition.
• Tendonitis: Tendonitis refers to inflammation of the tendons that connect muscles to bones. In the knee, tendonitis commonly affects the patellar tendon (patellar tendonitis) or the quadriceps tendon. It can cause localized pain, tenderness, and swelling.
• Bursitis: Bursae are small fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles around the knee joint. When these bursae become inflamed, it leads to a condition called bursitis, resulting in knee pain and swelling.
• Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS): ITBS is a common overuse injury that affects the iliotibial band, a thick band of tissue running along the outside of the thigh. It can cause lateral knee pain, particularly during activities like running or cycling.
• Overuse or Poor Biomechanics: Continuous and repetitive stress on the knee joint, such as from prolonged running or jumping, can lead to knee pain. Poor biomechanics, such as misalignment of the leg or foot, can also contribute to knee pain by placing abnormal stress on the joint.
• Gout: Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. It commonly affects the big toe joint but can also affect the knees, causing severe pain and inflammation.
• Obesity: The knee joint bears a significant amount of body weight, which can contribute to increased stress and potential knee pain, especially in individuals who are overweight or obese increasing the risk of developing knee pain and conditions like osteoarthritis.
• Other Causes: Other potential causes of knee pain include infections, tumors, nerve impingements, and referred pain from the hip or lower back.

This list is not exhaustive, and knee pain can have multiple contributing factors. Proper diagnosis by a healthcare professional is crucial to identify the specific cause of knee pain and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

If you are experiencing knee pain or any discomfort in your knees, it is important to seek medical advice for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. MASSH is here to help you, our qualified healthcare professionals specialise in the assessment and management of knee pain. Don't let knee pain limit your daily activities or hinder your quality of life.