Knee pain when kneeling can be frustrating. It often limits everyday activities and stems from various underlying causes. Understanding these reasons is key to managing symptoms and preventing worsening.
Common Reasons for Kneeling Pain
Prepatellar bursitis, or “housemaid’s knee,” is a frequent cause of kneeling pain. This involves inflammation of the prepatellar bursa, a fluid-filled sac in front of the kneecap. Repeated pressure from prolonged kneeling can inflame this bursa, causing swelling and tenderness over the kneecap.
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), or “runner’s knee,” also causes discomfort when kneeling. It causes pain around or behind the kneecap. Activities like kneeling, squatting, or climbing stairs often aggravate it by compressing the kneecap against the thigh bone. It can arise from overuse, muscle imbalances, or kneecap tracking issues.
Osteoarthritis, where knee joint cartilage gradually breaks down, is another source of kneeling pain. As cartilage wears, bones may rub, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. Kneeling intensifies this discomfort due to increased joint compression. This condition is common in older individuals.
Patellar tendinopathy, or “jumper’s knee,” also contributes to kneeling pain. It involves inflammation or degeneration of the patellar tendon, connecting the kneecap to the shinbone. Repetitive stress from activities like jumping or kneeling overloads this tendon, causing pain and tenderness just below the kneecap.
Initial Self-Care and Protective Measures
For immediate relief from knee pain when kneeling, several self-care strategies can be helpful. Rest the affected knee and modify activities that trigger pain, especially avoiding prolonged kneeling. Applying ice to the painful area can help reduce inflammation and swelling.
Compression with a bandage or supportive wrap can help minimize swelling, and elevating the leg above heart level can also aid in reducing fluid buildup. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as NSAIDs (ibuprofen or acetaminophen), can help manage pain. It is important to follow dosage instructions carefully.
Using protective gear, such as knee pads or cushions, is an effective way to prevent pain during kneeling activities. This cushioning distributes pressure more evenly and reduces direct impact on the kneecap. Maintaining general knee flexibility and strength through gentle movement can support overall knee health.
Signs to Consult a Doctor
While many instances of knee pain respond to self-care, certain symptoms indicate a need for professional medical evaluation. If the pain is severe, does not improve with home remedies, or progressively worsens, a doctor’s visit is warranted. Persistent pain that affects daily activities or sleep should also be assessed.
Signs of acute inflammation or infection, such as significant swelling, redness, or warmth around the knee, require prompt attention. If there is an inability to bear weight on the affected leg, a sensation of the knee locking or giving way, or an obvious deformity, these signal a more serious structural issue. A sudden onset of pain after an injury or the presence of fever or chills alongside knee pain also necessitates medical consultation.
Professional Diagnosis and Treatment
When seeking medical attention for knee pain, a healthcare provider will typically begin with a thorough medical history and a physical examination of the knee. This involves assessing the range of motion, stability, and identifying any areas of tenderness or swelling. The doctor may also inquire about the nature of the pain, its onset, and activities that aggravate or alleviate it.
To gain a more detailed view of the knee’s internal structures, imaging tests may be ordered. X-rays can help identify bone issues like fractures or signs of arthritis, while an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) provides detailed images of soft tissues, including ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. An ultrasound may also be used to visualize soft tissue structures in real-time.
Treatment approaches vary based on the specific diagnosis. Physical therapy is frequently recommended, involving targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the knee, improve flexibility, and correct movement patterns. In some cases, injections, such as corticosteroids, may be administered to reduce inflammation and pain. Surgical options are typically considered as a last resort for severe or persistent conditions that have not responded to conservative treatments.