Knee Pain

By understanding the many possible causes and exploring a full range of treatment options, you can reduce pain, restore function, and return to your normal routine with greater ease.

Knee Arthritis

The knee joint depends on smooth cartilage to allow effortless movement with minimal friction. When this cartilage wears down due to injury, aging, or other factors, arthritis can develop. Since cartilage does not regenerate, the body may form additional bone, leading to joint irregularities or bone spurs. Symptoms often include a dull, activity-related ache, stiffness, and swelling that may worsen over time. Treatment usually begins with non-surgical options such as physical therapy or corticosteroid injections, with surgery considered if symptoms persist.

Knee Bursitis

Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between bones and tendons. In the knee, they help ensure smooth joint movement. When a bursa becomes inflamed—due to direct impact, prolonged kneeling, or repetitive stress—bursitis can occur. Symptoms include localized pain, tenderness, swelling, and reduced mobility. Treatment often involves anti-inflammatory medications, fluid drainage, injections, and, in some cases, surgical removal of the affected bursa.

Knee Sprain

A knee sprain involves stretching or tearing of the ligaments that connect the thigh bone to the shin bone. These injuries are classified based on the ligament involved, including the ACL, PCL, LCL, and MCL. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, reduced movement, bruising, and sometimes a noticeable "pop" at the time of injury. Most sprains are treated conservatively with rest, bracing, and physical therapy, while complete ligament tears may require surgical repair.

Knee Tendonitis

Tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon, often caused by repetitive stress or overuse. In the knee, it commonly affects the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone. Over time, repeated strain can cause small tears that lead to pain and inflammation. Symptoms include tenderness, swelling, burning sensations, and pain during activities like kneeling or squatting. Treatment typically includes rest, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and sometimes injections. Surgery may be considered if conservative treatments are ineffective.

Ligament Tears

Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that stabilize the knee joint. Tears can occur in any of the four main ligaments:

• ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament): Often injured during sudden twisting movements
• PCL (Posterior Cruciate Ligament): Typically damaged by direct impact
• LCL (Lateral Collateral Ligament): Affected by blows to the outer knee
• MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament): Injured by impact to the inner knee

A ligament tear may cause a popping sensation, instability, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. Treatment may include bracing, physical therapy, and medication, while surgery may be needed to restore stability in more severe cases.

Meniscus Tear

The menisci are two pieces of cartilage that cushion the knee joint between the thigh and shin bones. Tears can occur from trauma or even simple twisting movements. Symptoms include pain, swelling, clicking or popping sensations, and limited range of motion. Conservative treatment may involve rest, ice, medication, and physical therapy, while persistent symptoms may require surgical repair.

Patellar Tracking Disorder

This condition occurs when the kneecap (patella) moves out of its normal alignment during movement. It is often caused by muscle imbalance, overuse, or repeated stress on the knee. Symptoms include pain at the front of the knee, clicking or popping during movement, and a feeling of instability. Most cases improve with rest, supportive measures, and physical therapy aimed at strengthening surrounding muscles. Surgery may be considered if non-surgical treatments do not resolve the issue.