Why Do Your Knees Hurt?

Knee pain is a frequent problem that affects people of all ages, and even being physically active. It can be the result of an injury, such as a torn ligament or a cartilage tear; although diseases such as arthritis or gout are also included.

Most mild pain tends to respond well to primary care at home. However, physical therapy can relieve pain and prevent possible occurrence.

Knees Hurt

What symptoms does it present?

Depending on the location and intensity of the pain, symptoms may vary depending on the cause of the problem. The signs that sometimes accompany knee pain are:

  • Inflammation and stiffness
  • Redness and temperature to the touch
  • Weakness or instability
  • Clicking or cracking sounds
  • Inability to fully straighten the knee

Even so, when you feel problems, such as not being able to bear the weight on the knee, feeling it unstable, you cannot flex it or see a deformity, it is time to go to the doctor.

What can be the causes of knee pain?

Injuries

A knee injury can affect any of the ligaments, tendons, or synovial bursae that surround the knee joint, as well as the bones, cartilage, and ligaments that make up the joint itself.

  • Anterior cruciate ligament injury . The anterior cruciate ligament injury is a tear of that ligament. It is particularly prevalent in people who play basketball, soccer, or other sports that require sudden changes in direction.
  • Fractures The bones of the knee, including the kneecap, can break during an accident or fall. Sometimes people with weak bones from osteoporosis can suffer a knee fracture simply by stomping.
  • Meniscus tear . The meniscus is made up of strong cartilage, and acts as a shock absorber between the tibia and the femur. If you turn your knee suddenly, you can break your meniscus.
  • Bursitis of the knee . Some injuries cause inflammation of the synovial bursae, which are the small sacs of fluid that cushion the outside of the knee joint and allow the tendons and ligaments to slide smoothly over the joint.
  • Patellar tendinitis . Tendinitis is an irritation and inflammation of one or more tendons. Those who run, ski, cycle, or do activities that involve jumping, may experience inflammation of the patellar tendon.

Physical problems

  • Loose pieces. Sometimes an injury to bone or cartilage, or degeneration of cartilage, can cause a fragment of bone or cartilage to detach and lodge in the joint space. This may not cause problems, but if the part interferes with the movement of the knee joint, it can interfere with the joint.
  • Iliotibial band syndrome . This condition occurs when the band of resistant tissue that extends from the outside of the hip to the outside of the knee is stretched and rubs against the outside of the femur. Runners and cyclists suffer the most.
  • Patella dislocation . This condition occurs when the triangular bone (patella) usually slips out of place. In some cases, the patella may remain dislocated, and the dislocation can be seen.

Which are the risk factors?

  • Overweight Being overweight or obese increases the pressure on your knee joints, even during common activities, such as walking or going up and down stairs.
  • Lack of flexibility or muscle strength . Lack of strength and flexibility can increase the risk of knee injury. Strong muscles help stabilize and protect the joints, and muscle flexibility can promote full range of motion.