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If You Wake Up with Pain in the Morning, Pay Attention
Causes and Treatment of Knee Pain
The knee, one of the largest and most important joints in the body, plays a significant role in carrying the body's weight and enabling movement. Sudden pain in the knee occurs as a result of strain or sudden injury. Since the knee bears the entire body weight, it is also prone to damage during movements that require extra strength, such as jumping or running. For this reason, knee pain is commonly found in people who are overweight. Pain in both knees is generally a sign of joint arthritis. However, if pain occurs in only one knee, different causes may be involved.
Causes of Knee Pain
- Strain: The most common cause of knee pain is strain. Strain causes the tissues around the knee to stretch, resulting in temporary pain.
- Meniscus: The meniscus, a rubber-like tissue that acts as a shock absorber within the knee joint, wears out as one ages. Meniscus damage is a primary cause of knee pain, especially in middle-aged and older individuals. Meniscus tears, caused by sudden bending, locking, or swelling of the knee joint, also result in knee pain.
- Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis, the most prominent cause of knee pain in older individuals, is characterized by swelling in the cartilage around the knee joint. Osteoarthritis can also occur in people who are overweight or have previously suffered knee injuries.
- Tendonitis: Tendonitis occurs when the tendons connecting the kneecap and bones become strained or damaged. This condition is commonly seen in activities involving jumping, such as volleyball, basketball, soccer, and handball. Knee pain is accompanied by redness, warmth, and swelling.
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: This condition, which causes pain around the kneecap at the front of the knee, is known as patellofemoral pain syndrome. The cause of the pain is often unknown. Knee pain intensifies during activities such as prolonged sitting and climbing stairs.
Factors that contribute to knee pain include joint bleeding, Osgood-Schlatter disease, arthritis, gout, and pseudogout.
What Helps with Knee Pain
If the pain is due to sprains or strains around the kneecap, it can often subside quickly. To prevent recurring knee pain from strain, warming up before exercises and stretching afterward is important. Gradually increasing exercise intensity and wearing supportive athletic shoes during sports activities can also help prevent ankle pain. Like other conditions, knee pain treatment should be directed at the underlying cause. Typically, rest is recommended to relieve pain. For conditions such as arthritis and inflammation, heat pads can ease discomfort. Cold therapy is recommended to reduce swelling accompanying knee pain from strain. Meniscus treatment may require surgery depending on the severity of the damage.
Last Updated Date: 31 May 2018
Publication Date: 31 May 2018
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