Knee Pain

The knee joint is more than just a hinge joint; as it bends, it pivots, glides, and rolls backward. It endures significant stress; when walking, the joint bears 1.5 to 2 times our body weight. But during activities like using stairs and playing sports, the stress can increase to 3-5 times our body weight, and up to 7 times during squats. It’s no surprise that our knees tend to wear out with age.

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Symptoms

Knee problems can present with a variety of symptoms depending on the condition.

Pain

Sharp or dull pain that worsens with movement or weight-bearing activities.

Localised swelling around the knee joint, indicating inflammation.

A grinding or popping sensation, especially during movement.

Feeling of weakness or instability in the knee, particularly when walking or standing.

Difficulty fully bending or straightening the leg due to stiffness or pain.

Sudden locking or catching in the knee during movement, particularly when changing posture or walking.

Causes

Knee pain can result from various injuries or degenerative conditions.

  • Ligament and Meniscus Tears: Common in younger individuals due to high-impact sports or trauma.
  • Fractures: Breaks in the bones around the knee, usually caused by direct trauma or accidents.
  • Kneecap (Patella) Maltracking or Dislocation: Occurs when the kneecap shifts out of place, causing pain and instability.
  • Cartilage Damage: As individuals age, cartilage wear (osteoarthritis) becomes more common, leading to chronic pain and stiffness.
  • Osteoarthritis: Degenerative joint disease that leads to cartilage breakdown and joint pain, particularly in middle-aged and elderly individuals.

Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of knee pain and injury.

  • High-Impact Sports: Activities involving pivoting, twisting, or jumping (e.g., ball sports) increase the risk of knee injuries.
  • Poor Conditioning: Individuals who engage in intense physical activity without proper conditioning (e.g., weekend warriors) are more prone to injury.
  • Aging: Degenerative changes in the cartilage and menisci increase the likelihood of knee pain in older adults.
  • Uneven Terrain: Walking or running on uneven surfaces can increase the risk of knee injuries, particularly for individuals with existing knee issues.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made through a combination of history, physical examination, and imaging tests.

  • X-rays: To detect fractures or signs of joint degeneration.
  • MRI: For detailed imaging of soft tissues like ligaments, tendons, and cartilage.

Treatments Provided By Us

Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is critical for regaining strength, range of motion, and function after surgery or injury.

  • Physical Therapy: Focused on strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and other muscles that support the knee.
  • Pain Management: Pain medications and ice therapy may be used to control post-surgical or post-injury pain.
  • Activity Modification: High-impact activities should be avoided during recovery to prevent complications or reinjury.

Complications

Untreated knee damage can lead to:

  • Chronic Pain: Persistent pain that affects daily activities.
  • Loss of Strength and Flexibility: Knee problems can cause muscle weakness and reduced flexibility.
  • Mobility Issues: Difficulty walking or standing may arise, leading to a sedentary lifestyle.
  • Hip and Back Problems: Altered gait due to knee pain may lead to hip and back issues.
  • Additional Knee Damage: Continued activity on an injured knee can worsen the condition, potentially leading to further structural damage.

Prevention Methods

To prevent knee pain and injury:

  • Proper Training and Conditioning: Adequate conditioning and strength training can reduce the risk of knee injuries, especially in high-impact sports.
  • Warm-Up and Stretching: Warming up before physical activity and stretching after exercise helps prevent injuries.
  • Know Your Limits: Avoid overexertion and engage in activities within your fitness level.
  • Consult with a Trainer or Physiotherapist: A professional can help identify improper movements that may lead to injury.

When To See A Doctor

Seek medical attention if:

  • Pain does not improve or worsens within a week or two.
  • You experience significant pain, immobility, or pain that interferes with sleep.
  • There is swelling, redness, or a fever, which may indicate an infection.

Doctors In-Charge

No one deserves to live a physically limiting life.

Schedule your consultation with our specialists to get back on track with your daily activities today.