Knee pain and the problems can affect people at any age. However, knee pain is commonly seen in older adults as a normal result of ageing. The wear and tear of everyday activities often causes knee pain, while deeper issues such as injuries, arthritis, and mobility issues that affect the knee joint can also contribute to knee pain. The severity of knee pain varies widely and the therapy needed to treat knee pain can range from rest to surgery.
The symptoms and location of knee pain will vary based on what is causing the pain. However, some common symptoms include:
While some symptoms of knee pain can often successfully be treated at home, such as swelling and redness, there are times when you should see a doctor right away. If you have a fever in addition to any of the symptoms listed above, are experiencing bad knee pain as a result of an injury, can see a clear deformation in the knee, or are unable to bear weight on the knee, you should seek immediate medical help.
The most common causes of knee pain and problems are:
Risk factors for knee pain & problems include:
A doctor will diagnose the problem causing knee pain with a combination of your medical history and current symptoms, a physical exam, and imaging tests. During a physical exam for knee pain, a doctor will look at your range of motion and for any obvious swelling, bruising, redness, and pain.
A doctor may order an imaging test to get a better look at what is causing the knee pain. If they think you may have an infection in the knee joint, a doctor will take a small sample of fluid from the joint to be sent to a lab for testing.
Complications of some knee pain and problems, notably any injuries and osteoarthritis, include future injury and disability if the knee pain goes untreated.
Treatment for knee pain varies based on the problem and level of pain. Options can include pain medications, physical therapy, steroid injections, and surgery, including joint reconstruction, full knee replacement, and partial knee replacement.
Prevention of knee pain and problems is possible. Maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle, and exercising in a way that is smart for your body and any health conditions you live with can help prevent knee injuries. Additionally, learning proper techniques for movements that put strain on the knees as well as strengthening the knee joint can help prevent future issues.