Knee problems are very common, and they occur in people of all ages. Knee problems can interfere with many things, from participation in sports to simply getting up from a chair and walking. This can have a big impact on your life. The most common disease affecting the knee is osteoarthritis. The cartilage in the knee gradually wears away, causing pain and swelling.
Injuries to ligaments and tendons also cause knee problems. A common injury is to the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). You usually injure your ACL by a sudden twisting motion. ACL and other knee injuries are common sports injuries.
Treatments for knee pain are as varied as the conditions that can cause the pain. Medications might be prescribed to treat an underlying medical condition or for pain relief. Sometimes there may be need of physical therapy to make knee more stable and help guarantee the best mechanical movements. Knee replacement Surgey may be suggested if non surgical treatment methods dont show recovering signs of knee condition.
Knee pain can be caused by injuries, mechanical problems, types of arthritis and other problems.
- ACL injury : An ACL injury is the tearing of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) — one of four ligaments that connect your shinbone to your thighbone.
- Fractures : The bones of the knee, including the kneecap (patella), can be broken during motor vehicle collisions or falls.
- Torn meniscus : The meniscus is formed of tough, rubbery cartilage and acts as a shock absorber between your shinbone and thighbone.
The location and severity of knee pain may vary, depending on the cause of the problem. Signs and symptoms that sometimes accompany knee pain include:
- Swelling and stiffness
- Redness and warmth to the touch
- Weakness or instability
- Popping or crunching noises
- Inability to fully straighten the knee