Walking is a popular form of exercise that many people enjoy. However, for some individuals, it can also lead to knee pain. This common issue can be caused by a variety of factors such as overuse, improper footwear, or poor alignment.
Causes of Knee Pain Due to Walking
You can do many things to help knee pain, whether it’s due to a recent injury or arthritisyou’ve had for years. Preparing with a warm-up and investing in shoes and insoles that lend support to your knees will allow you to walk with less pain. There are some simple things you can do for fast knee pain relief that don’t involve reaching for the painkillers. After a period of walking (approximately 30 minutes onwards), the knee pain will typically flare up and cause discomfort behind the knee and surrounding area.
One of the main reasons for knee pain while walking is overuse. When we walk long distances or on uneven surfaces, our knees bear the brunt of the impact. Over time, this constant stress can lead to inflammation and pain in the knee joint.
Arthritis refers to joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Go to the emergency room or call 911 (or your local emergency services number) if you’ve experienced a trauma like a car accident or severe fall. Go to the ER if you can’t move your knee or leg, or if you think you have a broken bone. The investigators first looked at participants who did not report regular knee pain. This form of traditional Chinese medicine, which involves inserting fine needles at certain points on the body, is widely used to relieve many types of pain and may help knee pain.
Researchers have identified different causes of runner’s knee. The condition can be caused by a structural problem in the knee joint. It can also be caused by weak muscles, tight hamstrings, a tight Achilles tendon or iliotibial (IT) band, overtraining, poor foot support, or misaligned gait patterns. If you have developed knee pain while running, it’s important to target the area that’s most affected.
Another common cause of knee pain is wearing improper footwear. Shoes that lack proper support or cushioning can put unnecessary strain on the knees, leading to discomfort and potential injury.
The questions that you will be asked will range from the medications you are using to questions about trauma to the knee, including previous surgeries, and activities of overuse. Also, call your care team if you have a fever or other symptoms of sickness. Some minor, ongoing knee pain should be checked as well. If your knee pain bothers your sleep or daily tasks, call a medical professional.
If you have sprained your knee or dislocated it or worse fractured your knee cap, again it is advised that you use RICE (rest, ice, compress, elevate) the joint for at least 48 hours. Please schedule a consultation with your primary care provider or one of our St. Luke’s Health orthopedic experts. Check with your insurance provider or primary care doctor to confirm if you need a referral. Injuries from falls and direct blows to the knee may also cause joint pain. The most common types of knee-related injuries include fractures, as well as sprains, dislocations, and ligament tears. Tendinitis is a type of overuse injury that results in inflammation of the tendons, which connect between your muscles and bones.
Preventing and Managing Knee Pain
To prevent knee pain due to walking, it is important to wear supportive footwear that fits properly and offers adequate cushioning. Additionally, incorporating strength training exercises for the legs and hips can help improve stability and reduce strain on the knees.
If you are experiencing persistent knee pain, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Ignoring the issue could lead to more serious complications down the road.
