Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of long-term knee pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and other medications can help with knee pain caused by arthritis. Some of these need to be given in a doctor’s office, but some can be used at home, either with or without a prescription.
Experiencing pain behind the knee can be a frustrating and limiting experience. Whether it’s due to injury, overuse, or other underlying conditions, finding relief is essential to getting back to your daily activities.
The individual who uses the above measures and still pain behind the knee persists, should visit their primary care physician. The physician can tell if the individual needs any surgery to fully lessen the pain from behind the knee. If an exercise causes more pain, stop doing it immediately. Common NSAIDs include ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve). Always follow the directions for dosage and frequency unless instructed by a doctor.
About 1 in 7 people diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis will receive some sort of injection to treat the painful, sometimes debilitating, symptoms of the disease. Tendinitis is a type of overuse injury that results in inflammation of the tendons, which connect between your muscles and bones. The knees are commonly affected areas, as well as the hips, elbows, and shoulders. Knee pain is the most common musculoskeletal complaint that brings people to the doctor. Several different things can lead to knee pain, and the treatments for it vary depending on what’s causing it.
PRICE, described above, should lead to a reduction in pain and improved movement within days, and a gradual improvement over the weeks to follow. According to some sources, apple cider vinegar (ACV) has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve arthritis and other types of pain. They’re usually made of stiff plastic or metal with cushions and straps that wrap around your knee and leg.
Exercises to improve your flexibility and balance also are important. The most common cause of pain behind the knee when straightening the leg is a meniscus tear, particularly if you’ve been siting down or squatting. A pulled hamstring can also cause pain and limit how far you can straighten the knee. The best treatment for pain behind the knee will partly depend on what’s causing the pain. There may be a general ache, leg movements may be restricted by swelling or there may be a sharp pain at the back of the knee.
Causes of Pain Behind the Knee
Common causes of pain behind the knee include muscle strains, ligament injuries, tendinitis, arthritis, or even bursitis. It’s important to pinpoint the exact cause of your pain in order to find the most effective treatment.
Treatment Options
One of the first steps in finding relief for pain behind the knee is rest. Avoiding activities that aggravate the pain can help give your body time to heal. Ice and elevation can also help reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort.
Physical therapy can be beneficial in strengthening the muscles around the knee to provide support and stability. Stretching exercises can also help improve flexibility and reduce tightness that may be contributing to the pain.
Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication regimen.
In more severe cases, injections or prescription medications may be necessary to provide relief for pain behind the knee. It’s important to work closely with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your specific condition.
Remember, finding relief for pain behind the knee may take time and patience. It’s important to listen to your body and give it the care it needs to heal properly. By working closely with your healthcare team and following their recommendations, you can find relief and get back to living your life to the fullest.
