Knee pain is a prevalent issue that affects people of all ages and activity levels. Whether caused by an injury, overuse, or underlying medical conditions, knee pain can significantly impact daily activities and mobility. Understanding the common causes of knee pain is essential for effective treatment and prevention.

1. Injuries

Knee injuries are a leading cause of knee pain and can result from sports, accidents, or sudden movements. Some of the most common knee injuries include:

  • Ligament Injuries: The knee has four main ligaments, including the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the medial collateral ligament (MCL). ACL tears often occur during sports that involve jumping or sudden changes in direction, while MCL injuries typically result from direct impact to the knee.
  • Meniscus Tears: The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between the shinbone and thighbone. A sudden twist or impact can cause a meniscus tear, leading to pain, swelling, and limited movement.
  • Patellar Tendinitis: Also known as jumper’s knee, this condition involves inflammation of the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shinbone. It commonly affects athletes who engage in repetitive jumping or running.
  • Fractures: Direct trauma to the knee, such as falls or car accidents, can cause fractures of the kneecap or surrounding bones, leading to severe pain and instability.

2. Arthritis

Arthritis is a common cause of chronic knee pain, particularly in older adults. Several types of arthritis can affect the knee:

  • Osteoarthritis (OA): The most common form of arthritis, OA occurs when the protective cartilage in the knee gradually wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling.
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the synovial lining of the knee joint, causing inflammation and pain.
  • Gout and Pseudogout: These conditions result from the buildup of crystals in the knee joint, leading to sudden and intense pain episodes.

3. Overuse and Mechanical Problems

Repetitive stress on the knee joint can lead to overuse injuries and mechanical issues, such as:

  • Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome): A common condition among runners and athletes, this condition causes pain around the kneecap due to misalignment or overuse.
  • Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome: The IT band is a thick tissue running from the hip to the knee. When it becomes tight or inflamed, it can cause pain on the outer side of the knee.
  • Bursitis: The bursae are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint. Inflammation of these sacs due to repetitive kneeling or trauma can cause knee pain.

4. Other Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can contribute to knee pain, including:

  • Infections: Septic arthritis occurs when bacteria enter the knee joint, leading to severe pain, swelling, and fever.
  • Obesity: Excess weight places additional stress on the knee joint, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis and knee pain.

Contact Dr. Anthony Cappellino

If you are experiencing knee pain, it is important to seek evaluation from an experienced orthopedic specialist like Dr. Anthony Cappellino. Identifying the underlying cause is the first step toward effective treatment and long-term relief. Schedule a consultation today to get the care you need and take the first step toward pain-free movement.