You may be more likely to have pain and stiffness when you wake up, or after long periods of not moving. If your symptoms worsen during certain activities or when laying down, this could be an indication to the cause of the pain. A group of three muscles run along the back of your thigh.
Leg knee pain can be a common issue that many people face at some point in their lives. From athletes to office workers, this type of pain can affect anyone regardless of their lifestyle. Understanding the reasons behind leg knee pain can help individuals determine the best course of action to alleviate the discomfort and prevent it from recurring.
You may also need X-rays or a test called an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) to see more detail of the joint. Aging, being overweight, and intense repetitive exercise can all cause knee pain. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Most people can take over-the-counter NSAIDs (ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen) or acetaminophen (Tylenol®). Don’t take these medications for more than 10 days in a row without talking to your provider or if you have kidney or liver disease.
Overuse and Strain
One of the most common reasons for leg knee pain is overuse and strain. This can occur when individuals engage in repetitive movements or activities that put excessive stress on the knee joint. Athletes who participate in high-impact sports such as running or basketball are particularly susceptible to this type of pain.
It can happen when you get some medical treatments, like chemotherapy, too. Sports drinks with electrolytes — or water along with foods that have those minerals — can help. 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. As you age, getting knee pain may become more common.
Injuries and Trauma
Injuries to the knee joint, such as ligament tears or fractures, can also lead to leg knee pain. Trauma from accidents or falls can cause damage to the structures within the knee, resulting in inflammation and discomfort. Seeking prompt medical attention is essential to properly treat these types of injuries.
Repeatedly bending your knees or bleeding in your bursae can cause a sudden onset of bursitis symptoms. Bursitis of the knee isn’t one of the most common places for this condition to occur, but it isn’t rare. Repetitive actions (such as walking or running) can cause your tendons to become inflamed and swollen. If your pain isn’t significant, you can try to diagnose and treat it at home by paying attention to the specific symptoms you have. However, if home treatments don’t seem to work, make sure to consult with a medical professional. Although it can hit you at any age, knee pain becomes more of an issue as we get older.
It may affect any part of the body, though the wrists, spine, and hips are more common. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of tough, rubbery cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between the shinbone and the thighbone. It can be torn if you suddenly twist your knee while bearing weight on it.
Arthritis and Degenerative Conditions
Chronic conditions such as arthritis and degenerative diseases can cause leg knee pain as well. Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other inflammatory conditions can affect the cartilage and tissues within the knee joint, leading to pain and stiffness. Managing these conditions with medication and physical therapy can help alleviate symptoms.
If the cartilage in your knee is injured you won’t have cartilage pain because cartilage doesn’t contain nerves. You also may need medication, physical therapy, or surgery. The bursa are fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, muscles, and tendons in the joints. Bursitis occurs when bursa become infected or inflamed.
Various types of arthritis can affect the lower extremities, such as the legs, hips, knees, and ankles. Many people know patellofemoral syndrome as runner’s knee. Often, overuse is the main cause of pain, which tends to be around the kneecap.
Improper Alignment and Posture
Leg knee pain can also be attributed to improper alignment and posture. Poor biomechanics while walking, standing, or exercising can place undue stress on the knees, causing discomfort over time. Working with a physical therapist or trainer to correct alignment issues can help prevent future pain.
Conclusion
Identifying the root cause of leg knee pain is crucial in order to effectively address and manage the discomfort. Whether it is due to overuse, injury, arthritis, or poor alignment, seeking treatment and making lifestyle adjustments can help individuals find relief and improve their overall quality of life.
