Knee pain is a common issue that affects people of all ages.

It can result from a variety of reasons, including injuries, medical conditions, or lifestyle choices.

Understanding the root causes of knee pain is crucial for preventing it or seeking appropriate treatment.

In this blog, Mykare Health will explore the most common causes of knee pain, ranging from temporary discomfort to chronic issues, while also offering practical advice on prevention and care.

Common Causes of Knee Pain

1. Injuries

Injuries are one of the leading causes of knee pain, particularly in active individuals. These include

• Ligament Injuries: The knee has several important ligaments, such as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the medial collateral ligament (MCL). Tearing or straining these ligaments can cause severe pain, swelling, and instability. ACL injuries are especially common in athletes and often require surgery.

• Meniscus Tears: The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage that cushions the knee joint. Tears in the meniscus can occur from a sudden twist or impact, often causing pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee.

• Fractures: Knee fractures can happen in the patella, tibia, or femur, usually due to trauma, such as falls or car accidents. Fractures are extremely painful and often require immobilization or surgery.

2. Overuse and Repetitive Strain

Overuse injuries are common among athletes, runners, or people whose jobs require repetitive movements. These can lead to conditions such as

• Patellar Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons that connect the kneecap to the shinbone. Patellar tendinitis is common in sports involving jumping and running.

• Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS): This occurs when the iliotibial band (a long piece of connective tissue running down the outer thigh) becomes tight or inflamed. ITBS is common in long-distance runners and cyclists, causing pain on the outer side of the knee.

• Bursitis: Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee. Repetitive kneeling or overuse can lead to inflammation of the bursae, resulting in pain and swelling.

3. Arthritis

Arthritis is a group of conditions that cause inflammation in the joints, and it is a significant cause of chronic knee pain. The most common forms of arthritis that affect the knee include

• Osteoarthritis: Often referred to as "wear and tear" arthritis, this condition occurs when the cartilage in the knee joint gradually wears away, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling. It’s common in older adults but can affect younger individuals due to injuries or genetics.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the joints, leading to painful inflammation and joint damage. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect both knees and other joints in the body.

• Gout: A form of arthritis caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints. Gout commonly affects the big toe, but it can also cause sudden and severe knee pain.

4. Obesity and Excess Weight

Carrying extra body weight places additional stress on the knee joints. The knee bears the body's weight during walking, running, or standing, and excess weight can accelerate the wear and tear on cartilage. Obesity is a major risk factor for developing osteoarthritis and can worsen existing knee pain.

5. Infections

Though less common, infections in the knee can cause severe pain. Septic arthritis occurs when a joint becomes infected, leading to swelling, pain, and fever. If left untreated, this can lead to permanent joint damage. Infections typically require urgent medical treatment, often with antibiotics or surgery.

6. Muscle Weakness and Imbalance

Weak or imbalanced muscles surrounding the knee can contribute to joint instability and pain. For example, weak quadriceps muscles can strain the patellar tendon, while tight hamstrings can place undue stress on the back of the knee. Regular strengthening and flexibility exercises can help correct these imbalances.

7. Knee Misalignment

Some people are born with or develop structural issues that cause their knees to become misaligned. Flat feet or knock knees are examples where poor alignment can lead to knee pain over time. Orthotic supports and corrective exercises can help alleviate pain caused by misalignment.

8. Tendon and Ligament Degeneration

As people age, tendons and ligaments lose their elasticity and flexibility. Degenerative changes in the tendons, such as the patellar tendon or quadriceps tendon, can cause pain and weakness in the knee. This type of degeneration is often seen in older adults and can limit mobility.

9. Dislocation

Knee dislocations, particularly of the patella, occur when the bones of the knee are forced out of alignment. This typically results from trauma or a sudden twist. Dislocations are extremely painful and may require immediate medical attention to reset the joint.

10. Chondromalacia Patella (Runner's Knee)

Chondromalacia patella occurs when the cartilage under the kneecap softens and deteriorates, leading to pain and inflammation. This condition is commonly known as "runner's knee" and is prevalent among runners, cyclists, and athletes involved in sports that require a lot of knee movement.