During movement of the knee from flexion to extension, the femoral condyles roll and glide posteriorly over the tibial plateaus owing to their greater articular surface area. The posterior gliding motion is important because without it, the femur would simply roll off the tibia before full extension is complete. The menisci are held in place by several ligaments, including the transverse ligament, meniscofemoral ligaments and meniscotibial (coronary) ligaments.
If you are someone who suffers from chronic knee joint pain, you understand the impact it can have on your daily life. From difficulty walking to limited mobility, knee pain can be debilitating. Fortunately, there are several solutions available to help alleviate this discomfort.
Exercise and Physical Therapy
One of the most effective ways to manage knee joint pain is through regular exercise and physical therapy. Strengthening the muscles around the knee can help provide support and stability, reducing strain on the joint. Additionally, physical therapy can help improve flexibility and range of motion, making everyday activities easier and less painful.
It’s most commonly torn during sports that involve sudden stops and changes in direction — such as basketball, soccer, tennis and volleyball. You can prevent knee pain by staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and protecting your joints from overuse. Your healthcare provider may be able to identify referred pain based on your physical exam.
The knees are commonly affected areas, as well as the hips, elbows, and shoulders. Knee pain is so common that almost everyone’s felt it in their lives. But that doesn’t mean you have to live in constant pain. Visit a healthcare provider if knee pain is making it bad enough to make you change your daily routine.
It may include a combination of options to help relieve pain and, if possible, cure the underlying problem. AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that empowers people to choose how they live as they age. You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply. Get instant access to members-only products and hundreds of discounts, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP the Magazine.
Medication and Injections
Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of long-term knee pain. Most cases of front knee pain are injuries from overuse, or from poor preparation for exercise. The problems usually go away on their own, and sporting activities can resume after the pain subsides.
In some cases, over-the-counter or prescription medications may be necessary to manage knee pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to provide temporary relief from symptoms.
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication regimen, as some medications may have side effects or interact with other medications you are taking.
The best exercise for knee pain is the one you feel capable and comfortable doing. The specific injury or underlying condition you’re trying to improve also plays a significant role. If your pain doesn’t go away, your doctor may suggest treatments to tackle the underlying cause of your knee pain. This may involve trying to make your hip muscles stronger, or help with foot problems, each of which can affect knee pain. Carrying extra body weight makes it more likely that you will get joint pain in the first place. If you have joint pain already, being overweight can make it worse.
Surgery
In cases of severe knee joint pain that does not respond to other treatments, surgery may be recommended. Procedures such as arthroscopy, knee replacement, or cartilage repair can help restore function and reduce pain in the affected joint. Your healthcare provider can help determine if surgery is the right option for you.
Overall, there are numerous options available to help manage knee joint pain and improve your quality of life. By working closely with your healthcare provider and exploring different treatment options, you can find relief from the discomfort and regain mobility in your knees.
