Causes of swollen, painful knees August 14, 2023 13:05
Knee pain and swelling can be debilitating, affecting our ability to walk, run, and perform daily activities. Understanding the causes of knee pain is crucial in order to seek appropriate treatment. There are various factors that can contribute to knee pain and swelling, ranging from acute injuries to chronic conditions. Here are some common causes.
1. Alignment Issues
a. Malalignment: Issues with the alignment of the bones, such as knock knees (valgus) or bow legs (varus), can lead to uneven stress on the knee joint.
b. Patellar Tracking Disorder: The patella (kneecap) may not move properly within its groove, causing pain during movement.
2. Muscle Imbalances: Weak or tight muscles around the knee can lead to improper joint movement and pain.
3. Injuries: a. Ligament Injuries: Tears or strains in the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament), PCL (posterior cruciate ligament), MCL (medial collateral ligament), or LCL (lateral collateral ligament) can result from sudden twisting or impact.
b. Meniscus Tears: The meniscus, which acts as a cushion between the thigh bone and shin bone, can tear due to sudden movements or degeneration.
c. Patellar Dislocation: The kneecap can be forced out of its normal position, causing pain and instability.
d. Fractures: Broken bones in the knee area can lead to pain, swelling, and limited movement.
4. Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative joint disease that commonly affects older individuals. It occurs when the protective cartilage on the ends of bones wears down over time, leading to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the knee joint.
5. Rheumatoid arthritis: Unlike osteoarthritis which is caused by wear and tear, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues including joints. This can lead to chronic inflammation in multiple joints including the knees.
6. Bursitis: The bursae are fluid-filled sacs that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints. When these sacs become inflamed due to overuse or repetitive motions, it can result in knee pain and swelling.
7. Patellar tendinitis: Also known as jumper's knee, this condition occurs when there is inflammation in the tendon connecting the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). It commonly affects athletes who participate in activities requiring frequent jumping or running.
8. Gout: Gout is a type of arthritis caused by an excess buildup of uric acid crystals in joints. When uric acid crystals accumulate in the knee joint, it can lead to sudden episodes of severe pain and swelling.
Stay tuned for my upcoming blog post where I will be sharing “natural ingredients to alleviate swollen and painful knees”
It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional in order to obtain an accurate diagnosis. They have the necessary expertise and knowledge to evaluate your symptoms, perform appropriate tests, and provide you with the most appropriate treatment plan.
