Knee pain is a common issue that affects many people at some point in their lives. Understanding why your knee hurts can help you find the right treatment and get back to your daily activities. Here’s a simple guide to some of the most common causes of knee pain.
Arthritis
One of the most frequent causes of knee pain is arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common type, which occurs when the cartilage in the knee wears down over time. This can cause discomfort, stiffness, and swelling. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition, can also affect the knee, causing pain and inflammation.
Ligament Injuries
Your knee has several ligaments that help stabilize and support it. The most common ligament injuries involve the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the medial collateral ligament (MCL). These injuries often happen during sports or activities that involve sudden stops or changes in direction. Symptoms usually include sharp pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee.
Meniscus Tears
The meniscus is a cartilage cushion between your thigh bone and shin bone. Tears in this cartilage can occur due to age-related wear and tear or from sudden twisting motions. A meniscus tear can cause pain, swelling, and a feeling that your knee is “catching” or “locking.”
Tendinitis
Tendinitis is the inflammation of the tendons, the tissues that connect muscles to bones. In the knee, this often affects the patellar tendon, located just below the kneecap. Tendonitis usually results from repetitive stress or overuse, such as from running or jumping. Symptoms include discomfort and tenderness around the knee.
Bursitis
Bursitis occurs when the small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the knee joint become inflamed. This can happen due to overuse or repetitive stress. Bursitis often causes swelling and pain around the knee, especially when kneeling or bending.
Patellar Dislocation
Patellar dislocation happens when the kneecap (patella) moves out of its normal position. This can cause severe pain, swelling, and difficulty straightening the leg. It often results from a direct impact or sudden twisting motion.
Overuse Injuries
Overuse injuries occur from repetitive activities that strain the knee, such as long-distance running or jumping. These injuries can lead to conditions like runner’s knee or iliotibial band syndrome, causing pain around the kneecap or on the outer side of the knee.
