Knee Pain

There can be many causes of Knee or Joint Pain, which range from diseases or conditions that involve the knee joint, the soft tissues and bones surrounding the knee, or the nerves that supply sensation to the knee area. In fact, the knee joint is the most commonly involved joint in rheumatic diseases, immune diseases that affect various tissues of the body including the joints to cause arthritis.

The knee joint is formed by femur, tibia, and fibula. These bones are joined together by ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Inside the surface of the joint is covered by cartilage called the meniscus that works as a shock-absorbent.

Causes of injury:

• Sprain

• Trauma

• Tear of meniscus

• Fracture or dislocation of knee cap

• Repetitive overuse injury like stair climbing, bicycling, jogging leads to pursitis and tendonitis.

• Underlying medical condition like gout, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupis.

Symptoms of Knee Pain

Symptoms of knee pain depend upon the location of injury and underlying cause. It may present itself as swelling, stiffness, discoloration, tenderness to touch, and popping noise, especially during movement. Pain due to osteoarthritis results in stiffness in the morning, that improves as the day progresses.

Knee Pain Diagnosis

A detailed history and physical along with an x-ray or MRI scan will help the clinician to diagnose and treat the underlying painful condition.

Knee Pain Treatment

The treatment is formulated based upon underlying condition. For simple injury, knee brace, rest, and physical therapy, along with anti-inflammatory medications will be helpful. If the patient is diagnosed with torn ligaments, he or she may require surgical repairs.