Top 4 Causes of Knee Pain
It is not uncommon to go to the doctor’s office and be diagnosed with a case of chronic knee pain. Following back pain, knee pain is the number two cause of chronic pain in America. From this fact alone, you can assume that there are a wide variety of cases and causes when it comes to knee pain. It can come about in many ways, so we’re here to educate you on the various causes of knee pain. Perhaps this list will help you detect an early onset of knee pain or lead you toward a solution today.
Knee Injuries or Trauma
There were roughly 10.4 million patient visits to the doctor’s office in 2010 because of knee injuries and trauma. Knee injuries often involve more than one structure of the knee and will usually show in forms of severe pain, swelling or even popping noises. If you recognize any of these symptoms after a fall, trip or high impact contact, then please consult a doctor to see if injury has taken place. We tell athletes to be extra cautious about these knee injuries – they are at higher risk due to the amount of strain their knees endure. Improper technique or form can cost them quite a bit of pain.
Common Knee Injuries:
- Kneecap Fractures
- Kneecap Dislocations
- Sprains
- Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tears
- Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Tears
- Meniscus Tear
- Patellar Tendonitis
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage (natural cushioning for the joints) begins to wear away. This allows the conjoining bones to rub closely against each other which results in pain, swelling, stiffness and limited mobility. Osteoarthritis in the knee is a commonly affected area and can happen because of age, gender, weight, heredity or exercise routines. Although it’s possible amongst younger generations, the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis increases after the age of 45. It is also a progressive and irreversible degenerative condition – so it’s important to find a pain management system or treatment that works.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
RA is an immune system disorder which causes the body to attack its own healthy cells and tissues – especially in the joints. Doctors have yet to pinpoint what the exact cause is, but symptoms include pain, swelling/inflammation, stiffness and warmth around the knee. RA tends to attack smaller joints first, such as fingers and toes, before it spreads to larger joints like wrists, ankles, elbows and knees.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Patellofemoral pain syndrome is caused by overuse, injury, excess weight or a misaligned kneecap. Athletes, teenagers and manual laborers are often common targets of this syndrome and symptoms usually include pain in the front of the knee – especially when the knee is bent (squatting, jumping or using the stairs). Your knee buckling or grinding might also be a common symptom.
If you suspect that you are suffering from any of the former conditions, or if you have been diagnosed and still require an effective treatment then give us a call at
319 540 8089 or contact us here. We could have the solution for you.