What leads to pain in the knee while bent?
Knee pain is a common issue that affects many individuals, especially those who are active. This article aims to provide a clear understanding of the causes, symptoms, and treatments for knee pain, as well as preventative measures to keep your knees healthy.
When should you contact a doctor about knee pain? If your knee pain persists for more than a few weeks, or if it suddenly becomes intense, particularly after an accident, it's essential to seek medical attention. Medical treatments for knee pain can vary greatly, depending on the underlying cause.
Doctors diagnose the cause of knee pain through a combination of physical examinations, medical history, imaging, lab tests, and other methods. Common causes of knee pain when bending the leg include Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS), meniscus tears, ligament injuries, knee bursitis, tendinitis, and osteoarthritis.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS), also known as "runner’s knee," causes pain around the kneecap, often worsening with bending or squatting. Meniscus tears arise from twisting injuries or age-related wear, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes locking of the knee. Ligament injuries, especially to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or medial collateral ligament (MCL), can cause sharp pain, swelling, instability, and difficulty bending. Knee bursitis is inflammation of fluid-filled sacs around the knee joint, causing localized tenderness and swelling, often aggravated by bending or kneeling. Tendinitis, especially of the patellar tendon, involves tendon inflammation leading to pain during bending or squatting. Osteoarthritis causes cartilage breakdown, stiffness, swelling, and deep knee pain, typically worsening with movement such as bending.
Treatment for knee pain depends on the specific diagnosis. Conservative approaches often include rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), anti-inflammatory medications, activity modification, and physical therapy focusing on strengthening and improving joint mechanics. Bracing or supportive devices may be used to stabilize the knee during healing, especially for ligament injuries. Injections, such as corticosteroids, may be used for persistent bursitis or inflammation. Surgery, such as meniscus repair or ACL reconstruction, is considered in severe or non-healing cases with instability or mechanical symptoms.
Preventing knee pain involves avoiding overuse, maintaining a moderate weight, and engaging in rehabilitative therapy when necessary. Home remedies for knee pain include hot and cold therapy, using a cane or walker, avoiding repetitive movement, wearing supports, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and getting plenty of sleep.
In summary, knee pain when bending is commonly due to soft tissue injuries, inflammation, or degenerative joint damage, and treatment is tailored based on the specific diagnosis but often begins conservatively with rest and rehabilitation. By understanding the causes and symptoms of knee pain and taking preventative measures, you can keep your knees healthy and active for years to come.
[1] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Knee pain: Causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. [online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/knee-pain/symptoms-causes/syc-20355539
[2] Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Knee pain: Causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. [online] Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/17195-knee-pain
[3] American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. (2021). Knee pain. [online] Available at: https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/knee-pain
[4] OrthoInfo. (2021). Patellofemoral pain syndrome (Runner's knee). [online] Available at: https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/patellofemoral-pain-syndrome-runners-knee
[5] American Family Physician. (2019). Diagnosis and Treatment of Knee Pain in Adults. [online] Available at: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2019/0615/p735.html
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