Knee pain is a common concern, often presenting whether the knee is fully straightened or actively bent. This discomfort can stem from various underlying issues within and around the knee joint. This article explores common reasons for pain in both positions, offering insights into potential causes and when to seek professional help.
Common Conditions Causing Knee Pain
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) is a frequent cause of knee pain, particularly around the kneecap. It often results from issues with how the kneecap moves in its groove on the thigh bone. Pain can occur when the knee is bent, such as during squatting or climbing stairs, due to increased pressure on the cartilage. It can also present as a dull ache when the knee is held straight for extended periods, like sitting.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is another prevalent condition, characterized by the gradual breakdown of cartilage within the joint. As protective cartilage wears away, bones may rub against each other, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. This friction causes discomfort during movement, including bending and straightening the knee, and can result in aching pain even at rest or after inactivity.
Meniscus tears involve damage to the C-shaped cartilage pads that cushion the knee joint. These tears can occur from twisting injuries or through wear and tear. Pain often arises when bending or twisting the knee, as these movements can pinch the torn cartilage. A torn meniscus can also cause a persistent ache or clicking sensation when the knee is straightened.
Tendinitis, an inflammation of a tendon, frequently affects the patellar or quadriceps tendons around the knee. Patellar tendinitis, often called “jumper’s knee,” causes pain just below the kneecap, while quadriceps tendinitis affects the area just above it. Both conditions lead to pain during activities involving bending and straightening the knee, such as running or jumping. Pain can also be present as a deep ache when the knee is at rest.
Bursitis, the inflammation of a bursa (small fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints), can also cause pain with knee movement. Several bursae are located around the knee. When inflamed, they can become painful when compressed by bending the knee or stretched when the knee is straightened. For example, prepatellar bursitis causes pain over the front of the kneecap, which can worsen with direct pressure or movement.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
Knowing when to seek medical advice for knee pain is crucial. Certain symptoms warrant prompt professional evaluation to prevent complications or address serious underlying issues. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience a sudden onset of severe knee pain, particularly after an injury.
An inability to bear weight on the affected leg or a feeling of the knee “giving out” are significant warning signs. Similarly, if you observe significant swelling, redness, or warmth around the knee joint, these symptoms suggest inflammation or infection that requires medical attention.
- A visible deformity of the knee or the inability to fully bend or straighten the leg.
- Persistent pain that does not improve with rest, ice, or over-the-counter pain relievers after a few days.
- Knee pain accompanied by a fever or chills, which could indicate an infection.
Diagnostic Methods and Treatment Options
When knee pain persists, a healthcare professional will begin with a thorough evaluation to identify the cause. This process starts with a detailed review of your medical history, including previous injuries, activities, and the specific nature of your pain. A physical examination of the knee is then performed, where the doctor assesses range of motion, stability, tenderness, and any swelling or warmth around the joint.
Imaging tests are often used to visualize the internal structures of the knee. X-rays can reveal bone issues, such as fractures or signs of osteoarthritis, by showing changes in bone density or joint space. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides more detailed images of soft tissues, including ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and menisci, helping diagnose tears or other soft tissue damage.
Treatment approaches for knee pain vary widely depending on the diagnosis and its severity. Conservative management is often the first line of treatment. This can include:
- Rest to allow the knee to heal.
- Applying ice to reduce swelling and pain.
- Using compression bandages for support.
- Elevating the leg to minimize fluid accumulation.
Physical therapy plays a significant role in rehabilitation, focusing on exercises to strengthen knee-supporting muscles, improve flexibility, and restore proper joint mechanics. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as NSAIDs, can help manage pain and inflammation.
For more persistent or severe pain, a doctor might prescribe stronger medications or recommend injections. Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation directly within the joint, while hyaluronic acid injections may help lubricate the joint in cases of osteoarthritis. When conservative methods have not provided relief, or for specific injuries like significant meniscal tears or severe osteoarthritis, surgical intervention may be considered to repair or reconstruct damaged structures or replace the joint.