Understanding Knee Pain: Common Causes and Solutions

Knee pain can be defined as acute pain or long-term (chronic) knee pain. Acute knee pain can be caused by meniscal injuries, tendon ruptures, ligament tears, or fractures of any of the bones of the knee. Causes of long-term knee pain (chronic) are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, tendonitis, bursitis, or infectious arthritis.  Dr. Jhurani is a well-trained, fully qualified, and experienced doctor in the field of knee & hip replacement surgery in Jaipur, India. He has built a department at Fortis Escorts Hospital, Jaipur of national repute and is well known for outstanding patient care, Knee and Hip Replacement Surgical Outcomes, academics & research.

Acute Knee Pain Causes:

1.       Meniscal Injuries: Menisci are cartilage-like structures in the knee that can tear due to sudden twisting or trauma. This can result in sharp, localized pain.

2.       Tendon Ruptures: Tendons connect muscles to bones, and their rupture, often due to overuse or injury, can lead to acute knee pain.

3.       Ligament Tears: Injuries to ligaments, such as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), or medial collateral ligament (MCL), are common among athletes and can cause significant pain and instability.

Chronic Knee Pain Causes:

1.       Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of chronic knee pain, often affecting older adults. It results from the gradual degeneration of the knee joint cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.

2.       Rheumatoid Arthritis: This autoimmune disease can cause chronic inflammation in the knee joint, resulting in pain, swelling, and long-term damage.

3.       Gout: Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, including the knee. It can lead to recurrent episodes of intense pain and inflammation.

4.       Tendonitis: Overuse or repetitive movements can cause inflammation in the tendons around the knee, leading to chronic pain and discomfort.

5.       Bursitis: Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint. Inflammation of these sacs, known as bursitis, can cause persistent pain and swelling.

6.       Infectious Arthritis: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can lead to knee joint infections, causing chronic pain and joint damage if left untreated.

Conclusion:

Knee pain is a common issue with various potential causes, ranging from acute injuries to chronic conditions. Understanding the source of your knee pain is the first step toward effective treatment and long-term relief. If you're experiencing persistent knee pain, it's crucial to consult with Dr. Anoop Jhurani for a proper diagnosis and the best treatment.