Common Causes of Knee Pain

Knee pain can result from injuries, medical conditions, or degeneration of the joint. Some common causes include:

• Osteoarthritis – Wear-and-tear damage to the knee joint over time.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis – An autoimmune disease causing joint inflammation and pain.
• Knee Ligament Injuries – Damage to the ACL, MCL, or PCL, often due to sports injuries.
• Meniscus Tears – Injury to the cartilage that cushions the knee joint.
• Patellar Tendinitis – Inflammation of the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone.
• Bursitis – Inflammation of fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint.
• Overuse & Repetitive Strain – Common in runners, cyclists, and athletes.

Symptoms of Knee Pain

The severity and type of knee pain can vary, but common symptoms include:

• Swelling, stiffness, or redness around the knee
• Clicking or popping sounds during movement
• Pain when bending, straightening, or bearing weight on the knee
• Weakness or instability in the joint
• Locking or catching sensation in the knee

Diagnosis and When to Seek Medical Advice

If knee pain persists or worsens, consult a doctor. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain that prevents you from putting weight on the knee
• Swelling that lasts for more than a few days
• Visible deformity or misalignment
• A knee that locks or gives way
• Pain accompanied by fever or unexplained weight loss

Common Diagnostic Tests: X-rays, MRI scans, ultrasound, and blood tests for inflammatory conditions.

Treatment Options

Knee pain treatment varies depending on the cause and severity. Common treatments include:

Self-Care & Conservative Treatments

• RICE Method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
  Reduces swelling and pain.
• Low-Impact Activities
  Swimming or cycling to maintain mobility.
• Knee Braces & Supports
  Provide stability for weak or injured knees.
• Pain Relief Medications
  NSAIDs such as ibuprofen to reduce inflammation.

Medical Treatments

• Physical Therapy
  Strengthening exercises to improve joint function.
• Corticosteroid Injections
  Reduce inflammation for arthritis or chronic pain.
• Hyaluronic Acid Injections
  Improve lubrication in osteoarthritic knees.
• Surgery
  Options include arthroscopy, knee replacement, or ligament repair.

Exercises for Knee Health

Regular knee exercises can help strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.

1. Straight Leg Raises

Lie down, straighten one leg, and slowly lift it while keeping the other leg bent.

2. Quadriceps Stretch

Stand on one leg and pull your other foot towards your glutes to stretch the thigh muscles.

3. Hamstring Curls

Stand upright and slowly bring one heel towards your buttocks, then lower.

4. Seated Knee Extensions

Sit on a chair and slowly straighten your knee, then lower back down.

5. Calf Raises

Stand on your toes and slowly lower yourself back down to strengthen knee support muscles.

Preventing Knee Pain

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on the knees.
• Wear supportive footwear with proper arch support.
• Warm up before exercise and stretch after workouts.
• Avoid sudden increases in exercise intensity.
• Strengthen the quadriceps and hamstrings to protect the knee joint.