Lateral knee pain, experienced on the outer side of the knee, is a common complaint, particularly during activities like walking. This discomfort can range from a dull ache to a sharp sensation, making movement difficult.
Common Causes
Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) is a frequent cause of lateral knee pain, especially in individuals who engage in repetitive knee movements like walking or running. The iliotibial band is a thick band of fibrous tissue extending along the outside of the thigh to just below the knee. When this band becomes inflamed or tight, it can rub against the bony prominence on the outside of the knee, causing pain. This condition often manifests as a gradually increasing pain during activity, which may subside with rest.
Another source of lateral knee pain is an injury to the lateral meniscus. The menisci are C-shaped pieces of cartilage within the knee that act as shock absorbers between the thigh and shin bones. A tear or damage to the lateral meniscus can result in pain, stiffness, and sometimes a clicking or locking sensation within the joint. These injuries can occur from sudden twisting motions or impact.
A Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) sprain involves damage to the ligament on the outer side of the knee, which connects the thigh bone to the smaller shin bone. The LCL provides stability, preventing the knee from buckling outward. A sprain can cause pain, tenderness, swelling on the outside of the knee, and a feeling of instability or the knee giving way. This type of injury often results from a blow to the inside of the knee or an outward force.
Osteoarthritis, specifically affecting the lateral compartment of the knee, can also lead to pain on the outer side. This condition involves the breakdown of cartilage, the smooth tissue that cushions the ends of bones in a joint. As cartilage wears away, the bones may rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and a grinding sensation, particularly with movement. This degenerative process is more common with aging and can be exacerbated by previous knee injuries or intense physical activity.
Bursitis, the inflammation of a bursa, can contribute to lateral knee pain. Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles. Inflammation of a bursa on the outer aspect of the knee can cause localized pain and tenderness.
Recognizing When to Seek Medical Attention
Persistent lateral knee pain that does not improve with rest or initial self-care measures, such as over-the-counter pain relievers, warrants a professional medical evaluation. Pain accompanied by visible swelling, redness, or warmth around the knee could signal inflammation or infection requiring attention.
Inability to bear weight on the affected knee or a significant worsening of pain are important indicators. Sensations like the knee locking, catching, or giving way, where the knee feels unstable, also point to a need for professional diagnosis. Pain following a direct injury or trauma to the knee should prompt immediate medical consultation.
Initial Self-Care Approaches
For managing lateral knee pain at home, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is a widely recommended initial approach. Resting the affected knee means avoiding activities that aggravate the pain. Applying ice packs for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day helps reduce pain and swelling; ice should be wrapped in a cloth to avoid direct skin contact. Compression, using an elastic bandage, can help minimize swelling, but it should not be wrapped too tightly to avoid restricting blood flow. Elevating the knee above the heart, ideally with pillows, encourages fluid drainage and reduces swelling.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen, can help reduce both pain and inflammation. Acetaminophen can also be used for pain relief, though it does not address inflammation. Always follow the dosage instructions on the product label.
When pain allows, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help maintain mobility and muscle support around the knee. However, it is important to stop if any activity increases pain. Modifying activities, such as reducing walking distances or avoiding uneven surfaces, can prevent exacerbation of pain. Wearing appropriate footwear with good stability, cushioning, and arch support can also positively impact knee mechanics and reduce strain.
Professional Evaluation and Treatment Options
A healthcare professional will typically begin a diagnosis by reviewing your medical history and conducting a physical examination. This assessment may involve specific movements to evaluate the knee’s stability and identify areas of tenderness. Imaging tests like X-rays, MRI scans, or ultrasound may be ordered to visualize the knee’s internal structures and confirm a diagnosis.
Conservative treatments are often the first line of professional care. Physical therapy plays a central role in strengthening muscles around the knee, improving flexibility, and correcting biomechanical imbalances that contribute to pain. A physical therapist can guide individuals through targeted exercises and stretches. Injections, such as corticosteroids, may be administered directly into the knee joint to reduce inflammation and pain, while hyaluronic acid injections can help lubricate the joint. Bracing or taping can provide support and stability to the knee, helping to reduce strain on injured tissues.
Surgical intervention is generally considered a last resort for lateral knee pain, reserved for severe cases where conservative treatments have not provided sufficient relief. This might include significant meniscal tears that cause persistent locking or severe ligament damage that compromises knee stability. Surgical procedures, such as arthroscopic lateral release or repair of damaged structures, aim to restore function and alleviate pain.