Sports injury prevention isn’t a one-stop shop, especially for injuries like ACL tears, which are four to eight times more common among women than men. Discover ways for women to help prevent this common injury. Practice stretching and strengthening exercises if your doctor recommends them.
The patella tendon connects the knee cap to the shin bone, so people often feel pain in the center of the knee when they move their leg. IT band syndrome is thought to occur when the bottom portion of the band begins to rub or pinch against the end of the femur bone. The friction, which occurs repeatedly when running, eventually leads to knee pain and soreness. Occasionally, this MCL can be overstretched, leading to a sprain or a complete or partial tear. MCL tears commonly occur after a sudden twist or change of direction in sports like soccer, football, or basketball. It can also be caused by a direct blow to the outside of the knee joint.
A person may experience a dull, aching pain that increases when going upstairs or bending the leg frequently. The treatment of side knee pain can vary by the cause and severity of symptoms. Some conditions can be managed with at-home treatments, while others require prescription drugs or specialized treatments, including surgery.
Knee pain is a common complaint that can range from minor discomfort to debilitating agony. Whether it’s caused by an injury, arthritis, or overuse, knee pain can significantly impact your daily life and activities. Understanding the causes and treatments for knee pain is essential to effectively managing the discomfort.
There are several home remedies a person can use to ease pain, such as using hot and cold therapy, in addition to resting and wearing a support. Many people know patellofemoral syndrome as runner’s knee. Often, overuse is the main cause of pain, which tends to be around the kneecap. Typically, the pain is mild at first and gradually worsens over time.
With a lateral tear, your ability to rotate the knee is more affected than your ability to fully straighten or bend the knee. As with the inside of your knee, the outside (lateral) portion of the knee joint is a crossroads of many different structures. Because of the complexity of the knee joint, these structures are vulnerable to both long- and short-term injury. Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee occurs when the slippery cartilage that covers the end of your thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia) starts to deteriorate. OA frequently affects the medial portion of the knee, known as the medial tibiofemoral compartment.
Consider using compression ice pack for extra relief. 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. Heat may not be for everyone, but if it feels good for you then use it as a tool to help your symptoms. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the center of the knee prevents it from sliding forward.
Common Causes of Knee Pain
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease condition where the healthy tissue in your joints, like your knees, is attacked by your immune system. The cartilage in your knee can be worn down over time by affected cells, causing swelling, stiffness, and pain. But your provider may suggest it if the pain is severe and other treatments haven’t helped.
There are several common causes of knee pain, including:
- Injuries: Sprains, strains, torn ligaments, and meniscus tears can all lead to knee pain.
- Arthritis: Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other types of arthritis can cause inflammation and pain in the knee joint.
- Overuse: Activities that put repetitive stress on the knee, such as running or jumping, can lead to knee pain.
Managing Knee Pain
There are several ways to manage knee pain and improve mobility:
- Rest: Giving your knee time to rest and heal is crucial in managing pain and preventing further injury.
- Ice and Heat Therapy: Alternating between ice packs and heat pads can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
- Physical Therapy: Working with a physical therapist to strengthen the muscles around the knee can help improve stability and reduce pain.
Frequently Asked Questions about Knee Pain
Here are some common questions about knee pain:
Q: How can I prevent knee pain?
A: Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and using proper form during physical activities can help prevent knee pain.
Q: When should I see a doctor for knee pain?
A: If your knee pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by swelling or redness, it’s important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
By understanding the causes of knee pain and implementing effective management strategies, you can take control of your discomfort and improve your quality of life.
