Causes of Knee Pain & How to Treat Them

Knee pain is a common problem affecting people of all ages, from athletes pushing their limits to seniors managing everyday tasks. Let us discuss more about knee pain, including its causes and treatment options, here.

Possible Causes of Knee Pain

Accurately identifying the underlying cause of knee pain is essential for guiding treatment decisions. Common causes of knee pain include:

Medical Conditions

• Arthritis: Arthritis is a broad term that covers over 100 different conditions characterised by inflammation and joint pain. It affects people of all ages but is more common in older adults. Common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and post-traumatic arthritis.
• Tendonitis: This refers to an inflammation or irritation of a tendon, often affecting the patellar tendon in the knee. It causes pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee. Tendonitis can occur in people of all ages.
• Bursitis: This is the inflammation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint. It results in pain and swelling around the knee and can occur at any age.

Physical Injuries

• Sprained or Strained Knee Ligaments: This injury occurs when the knee is twisted or hit with force, causing pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee. Those who engage in physical activities or sports are at higher risk of this injury.
• Torn Cartilage: This can result from an injury or wear and tear over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and instability in the knee. This condition is more common in athletes and older adults due to degeneration.
• Dislocated Kneecap: This happens when the kneecap moves out of its normal position, causing severe pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Those who are involved in high-impact sports are at greater risk of this injury.
• IT (Iliotibial) Band Syndrome: This is an overuse injury caused by inflammation of the iliotibial band, a thick tissue band stretching from the hip to the shin. It results in pain on the outside of the knee during running or repetitive activities. This condition is more common among long-distance runners.
• Meniscus Tear: This injury commonly affects the shock-absorbing cartilage in the knee, leading to pain, swelling, and instability. Athletes or older adults with degenerative changes are at greater risk of this injury
• Osgood-Schlatter Disease: This is an overuse condition or injury, resulting in a painful lump below the kneecap. It involves inflammation of the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shinbone. This commonly affects teenagers during growth spurts.
• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: This condition causes pain in the front of the knee and around the kneecap. Activities that stress the joint, like jumping, squatting, or running, can lead to this pain. Because of this association with running, it is often called "runner's knee".

Who Is at Risk for Developing Knee Pain?

While anyone can develop knee pain, certain factors increase the risk:

• Age: Knee pain is more common as people age due to joint wear and tear.
• Weight: Being overweight or obese increases stress on your knee joints, even during daily activities such as walking or going up and down stairs.
• Injury: People with a previous knee injury are more likely to experience knee pain.
• Occupation: Jobs that require repetitive stress on the knees (like construction or farming) can increase one’s risk.
• Certain sports: Participating in certain sports, like running, skiing, or those that involve jumping or quick pivoting, can increase the risk of knee injury and pain.

When to See an Orthopaedic Doctor for Knee Pain

You should see an orthopaedic doctor if you experience severe or persistent knee pain, have a noticeable deformity, or cannot extend or flex your knee fully. Additionally, it is advisable to seek medical attention if your knee pain is accompanied by swelling, redness, tenderness, and warmth around the joint; as these are potentially signs of a more serious underlying condition.

How Is Knee Pain Diagnosed?

Diagnosing knee pain typically involves a combination of a physical exam and imaging tests. During the physical exam, your doctor will inspect your knee for swelling, pain, tenderness, warmth, and any visible bruising or deformity. They may also move your knee into different positions to assess range of motion and stability. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, are commonly used to get a better look at the internal structures of the knee.

Non-surgical Treatments for Knee Pain

In mild to moderate cases, non-surgical treatments may be recommended. This includes:

• Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids can be injected directly into the knee joint to reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
• Hyaluronic Acid: Also known as viscosupplementation, this is a lubricant naturally found in the joints. This can help reduce pain and improve knee movement.
• Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP): PRP therapy uses the patient's own concentrated platelets to promote healing and reduce inflammation in the knee.

Surgical Treatments for Knee Pain

In more serious cases, surgery may be recommended. The most appropriate surgical option will depend on the type and severity of condition. Common surgical treatments include:

• Arthroscopic Surgery:

  A minimally invasive procedure that diagnoses and treats various knee conditions. Arthroscopic surgery may be used to repair damaged cartilage and ligaments and remove loose bones or tissues to alleviate pain.

• Partial Knee Replacement Surgery:

  Also known as a unicompartmental arthroplasty, this procedure replaces only the damaged part of the knee, preserving as much of the natural knee as possible.

• Total Knee Replacement:

  This surgical procedure involves the removal of worn-out or damaged knee joint surfaces. The removed joints are then replaced with prostheses to restore optimal comfort and movement.

• Osteotomy:

  This surgical procedure cuts and reshapes the bones in the knee to shift weight from an area damaged by osteoarthritis to a healthier and stronger part.

How to Prevent Knee Pain

To prevent knee pain, consider the following:

1. Regular Exercise and Stretching:

   Activities like step-ups, hamstring curls, straight-leg lifts, and moderate exercises that build muscle around your knees can help to strengthen and protect your joints.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight:

   Excess weight can strain your knees and increase your risk of knee-related injuries and osteoarthritis. Consume a healthy diet and lead an active lifestyle in order to maintain an optimal weight.

3. Use the "RICE" Method:

   For minor injuries or arthritis flares, Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE) can be beneficial to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain initially.

4. Physiotherapy and Knee Braces:

   Exercise and other rehabilitative activities can help strengthen the knees and improve mobility. Additionally, utilising knee braces can also support the knee and relieve pain.

However, if the pain persists, worsens, or is affecting your day-to-day life, please seek medical attention. Our knee pain specialist at the International Orthopaedic Clinic is experienced in diagnosing and treating all types of knee pain effectively.