While they do so, they can also repair an injury or clean out debris, such as bone fragments, from the joint to better preserve healthy joint tissue. The ACR/AF do not recommend using opioid drugs, as there is a risk of developing a dependency. However, if the other medicines do not work, a doctor may eventually prescribe an opioid.
Causes of Pain Behind the Knee
When someone injures their hamstrings, they may feel pain in the back of the knee, around the buttocks, thigh, and lower leg. Wear and tear from daily activities and injuries are some of the most common causes of knee pain, but long-term knee pain can indicate an underlying health issue. After asking about your symptoms and health history, your healthcare provider will perform a physical exam. They will assess your knees, hips, and legs as well as your overall joint health.
Some knee injuries can heal on their own with rest and care. Nonoperative treatments like physical therapy may also help solve many knee pains. There’s a lot of debate around ice vs. heat for achy joints. Dr. Paul says for chronic inside knee pain, a warm shower or heat pack can help the knee feel less stiff as it improves blood circulation to the knee.
Experiencing stiffness and pain behind the knee could be due to injuries to the delicate structures in the knee. These types of injuries are referred to as posterolateral corner (PLC) injuries. At the end of the article, you can find out how to treat a pulled or torn hamstring and help ease the pain behind your knee.
Pain behind the knee can be caused by a variety of reasons, including overuse injuries, such as strained or torn muscles or ligaments. It can also be due to underlying conditions like arthritis, bursitis, or Baker’s cysts. In some cases, poor posture or biomechanics can put extra stress on the knee joint, leading to discomfort and pain.
Effective Treatment Options
When it comes to treating pain behind the knee, there are several effective options available. RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is often recommended for minor injuries to reduce swelling and pain. Physical therapy exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve flexibility. Over-the-counter pain medications can also provide relief from discomfort.
A hyperextended knee is an injury where the knee bends back too far. This damages the structures at the back of the knee, resulting in pain behind the knee. Another common cause of pain behind the knee is a tear in the cartilage at the back of the knee. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Chondromalacia happens when the cartilage inside a joint breaks down. Cartilage is the rubbery material that cushions bones so they don’t scrape against one another when you move.
Further Treatment Strategies
In more severe cases, doctors may recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and pain. For conditions like arthritis, treatments like hyaluronic acid injections or platelet-rich plasma therapy may be suggested. In rare instances where conservative measures fail, surgery may be considered to address the underlying issue causing the pain.
After an exam, your doctor may refer you to a sports medicine specialist. A popliteal cyst causes swelling and sometimes pain at the back of your knee, which you’ll probably notice. If you have a very large swelling, it may stop you from fully straightening your leg. The swelling may come and go, and get worse or better over time. If your cyst bursts, you may hear a pop and feel warmth spread down your calf. It may start to look red or bruised anywhere from the back of your knee down to your ankle and the top of your foot.
Regardless of the cause of the pain behind the knee, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific situation. With the right interventions, you can find relief and get back to enjoying your daily activities without discomfort. Remember to always listen to your body and seek medical advice if the pain persists or worsens.
