Knee pain is a common issue that can affect people of all ages, making daily activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even standing uncomfortable. It can arise from various causes, including injuries, overuse, arthritis, or underlying medical conditions.

In India, knee pain is a prevalent complaint, especially among the elderly, with osteoarthritis affecting over 15 million people each year. Younger individuals, particularly athletes, are also prone to knee injuries due to high-impact activities.

If you’re experiencing persistent knee pain, swelling, or difficulty in movement, it’s crucial to consult a doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further complications and help you maintain an active lifestyle.

Knee pain can result from a variety of causes, each impacting the joint differently. Understanding these causes can help in identifying the source of your pain and finding the right treatment:

1. Injuries: Common knee injuries include ligament tears (like ACL or MCL injuries), meniscus tears, fractures, and dislocations. These injuries often occur during sports, accidents, or sudden movements and can cause immediate pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee.

2. Arthritis: Osteoarthritis, the most common form, is caused by the gradual wear and tear of the knee cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition, and gout, characterised by uric acid crystal buildup, can also lead to knee pain, swelling, and stiffness.

3. Overuse and Repetitive Stress: Activities that involve repetitive knee motions, such as running, cycling, or squatting, can strain the knee joint, leading to conditions like tendonitis or bursitis. Overuse can cause inflammation of the tendons or the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee.

4. Obesity: Excess body weight puts added pressure on the knee joints, accelerating wear and tear and increasing the risk of osteoarthritis. Even a small amount of extra weight can significantly impact knee health over time.

5. Muscle Imbalance or Weakness: Weak or imbalanced muscles around the knee can fail to provide adequate support, leading to instability and increased risk of injury or pain. Strengthening these muscles can help maintain proper knee alignment and reduce stress on the joint.

6. Infections: Knee infections, although rare, can occur due to an injury or a systemic infection that spreads to the knee joint. Such infections cause redness, swelling, and severe pain, requiring immediate medical attention.

Knowing these potential causes can help you understand why knee pain occurs and guide you toward appropriate preventative measures or treatments.

Knee pain can manifest in different ways, depending on the underlying cause. Being aware of the symptoms can help you seek timely treatment and avoid further complications.

1. Persistent Pain or Discomfort: The most common symptom is pain in or around the knee joint, which may be sharp, dull, or throbbing. This pain can occur during specific activities, such as walking, running, or climbing stairs, or may be constant, making even resting uncomfortable.

2. Swelling and Stiffness: Inflammation around the knee joint can cause noticeable swelling, making the knee feel tight and stiff. This can limit your range of motion, making it hard to bend or straighten your leg fully. Swelling can develop immediately after an injury or gradually over time.

3. Instability or “Giving Way” Sensation: You may feel that your knee is unstable or weak, as if it could buckle or give way under pressure. This sensation often indicates ligament damage or muscle weakness and can significantly affect your confidence in everyday activities.

4. Clicking or Popping Sounds: Hearing clicking, popping, or crunching noises when you move your knee can be alarming. While some sounds are harmless, persistent noises accompanied by pain may suggest cartilage damage or other structural issues within the joint.

5. Redness and Warmth: Infections or inflammatory conditions can cause the skin around the knee to become red and warm to the touch. These symptoms are often signs of an underlying problem that needs immediate medical attention.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.