Knee Pain Should Not Be Ignored

When joint issues are neglected, damage to the knee can worsen. Therefore, it is of great importance to be aware of knee problems and not delay consulting a doctor for our health. Dr. Taner Özdemir, an orthopedic and traumatology specialist at Anadolu Health Center, emphasized that those experiencing knee issues such as meniscus or connective tissue problems should reduce their physical activities. He also advised, “If a profession requires intense physical activity, it is necessary to consult the workplace doctor and take the necessary precautions,” providing important insights into knee disorders.

Knee pain occurs for different reasons depending on age groups. Occupational and sports activities also play a significant role. While some knee conditions require urgent surgical intervention, others may need a long rehabilitation process. Although the most well-known condition is the meniscus problem, knee issues are not limited to just this. Dr. Taner Özdemir emphasized that knee pain should not be ignored. Özdemir stated, “If you experience swelling, limited mobility, or an abnormal feeling while walking, or if your knee locks or ‘gives way,’ you should definitely consult a doctor. If the swelling in the knee is accompanied by heat and a high fever in the swollen area, it could be an emergency situation requiring surgical intervention, and you should seek medical attention immediately.”

Sports Activity Can Cause Knee Pain

Orthopedic and Traumatology Specialist Dr. Taner Özdemir pointed out that the causes of knee pain primarily vary according to age, occupational groups, and the intensity of sports activity. He explained, “Pain can result from the knee’s injury due to activities, mechanical problems caused by various factors, or arthritis. In addition to these, some rare abnormalities can also lead to knee pain.”

The Patella Not Being Exactly in the Middle Can Cause Pain

Dr. Taner Özdemir explained that anatomically, the patella should be in the exact center of the knee. He said, “For some reasons, the patella may not be in the exact middle. While this may not initially seem like an important issue, those with this anomaly are at a higher risk of experiencing various knee problems. A portion of the pain in the patella is often due to this anomaly. If your patella is not in the center of your knee, there are risks of the patella shifting sideways during loading and cartilage damage while shifting. Abnormal friction occurs between the cartilage just below the patella and the bone, leading to osteoarthritis, commonly known as calcification.”

Avoid Overloading the Knee While Exercising

Dr. Taner Özdemir emphasized the importance of exercise for our health, but he also pointed out that intense physical activity and overloading can cause various disorders, and sometimes irreversible damage. He said, “Injuries to the knee ligaments and meniscus tears are commonly referred to as ‘athlete’s injuries.’ Ligament injuries, especially anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries, are very common and typically occur during sports activities or heavy physical work. Meniscus injuries are more frequently seen in individuals who do intense sports or those who frequently kneel while working. Athletes should also be cautious of potential injuries to the patella tendon, which allows the knee to function properly. This is especially important for children, and it is beneficial to be extra cautious and attentive in their case. Overloading while exercising can be particularly dangerous for children. Excessive load on their knees can lead to various knee problems. Children’s bones and epiphyseal cartilage are very soft, and overloading can cause damage to the soft cartilage in the front of the knee, resulting in various disorders.”

Knee Infections to Watch Out For

Orthopedic and Traumatology Specialist Dr. Taner Özdemir highlighted that one of the causes of knee pain can be infections, and he concluded his statement by saying: “There is a membrane called ‘synovium’ inside the knee. This membrane secretes a fluid that allows the joint to move more freely. Infections can occur in the synovium due to microbial causes, and this is a very dangerous knee disorder. This disease, called septic arthritis, requires emergency surgical intervention. So, what are the symptoms of septic arthritis? If there is excessive swelling in the knee and an increase in temperature in the swollen area, along with a high fever, even without any impact, you should immediately consult a doctor. If septic arthritis is not treated promptly, it can lead to cartilage damage and subsequently to osteoarthritis. If rheumatoid arthritis develops in the synovium, the membrane thickens and produces more fluid. The treatment of this disorder is managed by rheumatology specialists.”

Shortly

Knee Locking: This refers to the inability of the knee joint to function and it remains fixed in one position. It can be caused by meniscus tears or cartilage damage, among other reasons.

Knee Giving Way: This refers to feeling abnormal movement in the knee while walking or running. It is a sign of ligament injury.

Bursitis: This is the irritation and swelling of the small pads called “bursae” in the knee, which causes pain. These small pads protect the knee from impacts. It is commonly seen in individuals who are required to kneel constantly as part of their work.

First Aid for Knee Pain
If you have swelling and pain in your knee:

• Apply ice to reduce pain and swelling.
• Lie down and place a support under your leg.
• Wrap the knee with a bandage, but not too tightly.

Knee Issues by Age Group
In Children: In children, issues often arise from excessive strain or sports overload. Bone and skeletal system tumors in the knee area are also more commonly seen in children.

In Adolescents: In adolescents, pain is usually caused by excessive strain due to sports activity or work-related activities.

In Older Adults: In older adults, problems are often caused by rheumatic diseases such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

Right and Wrong
Right
It is preferable to choose swimming for sports activities. If not, light jogging is a good alternative. For running, choose level, smooth tracks and always wear running shoes.

Wrong
Running or engaging in sports on asphalt or concrete surfaces, especially on uneven terrains. Not doing warm-up and stretching exercises before sports. Making sudden and excessive exertion.