Causes of Knee Pain

Knee pain is something that affects everyone at one point or another. It also affects people of all ages. The knees are extremely complex joints that support the weight of your body every single day and are prone to injury. Your knees are critical to your ability to carry out day-to-day tasks.

The knee pain you experience may be accompanied by swelling, stiffness, redness, weakness, and instability. If your knee hurts, you will have a hard time fully extending it to stand up. If one or both of your knees cannot support you, it is definitely time to seek medical attention.

Common Causes of Knee Pain

There are many causes of knee pain that can range from minor to major.

Acute knee injuries are usually the result of a fall, sports injury, or vehicle accident. Some of the most common acute knee injuries include:

·      ACL injury. Damage to your anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) – usually in the form of a tear – is very common in people who play sports or engage in extreme recreational activities. Female volleyball players are especially susceptible to an ACL tear.

·      Bone fractures. Knee fractures are usually a result of an accident or a fall. This is especially true among those with osteoporosis, in which the bones lose their density and weaken – to the point that simple bumps or tripping can break a bone.

·      Torn meniscus. The meniscus is cartilage within the knee that acts as a shock absorber between the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). A sudden twisting or jerking movement can result in a torn meniscus.

·      Knee bursitis. Bursitis is inflammation of the bursae, fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints. Common symptoms of bursitis in the knee include swelling and tenderness to the touch. Bursitis can develop as the result of trauma or overuse.

·      Patellar tendinitis. When the tendon between your kneecap (patella) and shinbone (tibia) becomes irritated and inflamed. Those who engage in sports are prone to this type of knee injury.

If your knee pain is long-term and chronic, it may be due to arthritis. Arthritis is considered a degenerative condition that will worsen over time. The most common types of arthritis that can cause knee pain are:

·      Osteoarthritis. This type of arthritis is considered a wear-and-tear deterioration of the cushioning cartilage in the knee. It occurs most often in older adults.

·      Rheumatoid arthritis. This type of arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that can affect the knee joints. Your body mistakenly attacks the cartilage in the joints, which causes your knee pain. RA is chronic and its severity can vary significantly among patients.

·      Gout. This type of arthritis is a result of the buildup of crystals at the joint, causing pain. The big toe is most commonly affected, but it can also occur at the knee.

Knee Surgeon in Little Rock, Arkansas

Knee pain can prevent you from doing daily tasks and the activities you enjoy. Even just a simple act like getting up from a chair can be a challenge if you are living with knee pain.

Dr. William Hefley Jr. and his team specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of knee pain. They will see to it that your mobility is restored so you can get back to the life that you enjoy.

If you are suffering from debilitating knee pain, please reach out to us at (800) 336-2412 or request an appointment now.