What is Knee Pain?

Knee pain is a common complaint for many people, especially for athletes and the aging. There are several factors that can cause knee pain. Awareness and knowledge of the causes of knee pain lead to a more accurate diagnosis. Management of knee pain is in the accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for that diagnosis. Knee pain can be either referred pain or related to the knee joint itself.

The Structure of the Knee

The knee joint consists of an articulation between four bones: the femur, tibia, fibula and patella. There are four compartments to the knee. These are the medial and lateral tibiofemoral compartments, the patellofemoral compartment and the superior tibiofibular joint. The components of each of these compartments can suffer from repetitive strain, injury or disease. Running long distance can cause pain to the knee joint as it is high impact exercise.

Causes of Knee Pain

Other conditions that cause knee pain include:

  • Bone chips. An impact knee injury can break off fragments from the bone or cartilage. These pieces can get stuck in the joint, causing it to freeze up. You may also have pain and swelling.
  • Bursitis. A bursa is a sac of fluid that cushions and protects your joints. There are several in different parts of your knee. Overuse, a fall, or repeated bending can irritate the bursa, causing pain and swelling. Two types of bursitis are called ”housemaid’s knee” and ”preacher’s knee,” since they are often caused by kneeling. A ”Baker’s cyst” — a swelling of one of the bursa in the back of the knee — can also result from injuries and from conditions like arthritis.
  • Iliotibial band syndrome. The iliotibial band is a piece of tough tissue that runs from your hip down to your shin. If it’s irritated by overuse or other problems, it can get swollen and cause pain on the outer side of the knee.
  • Medial plica syndrome. The plica is a fold of tissue in the knee joint. When it gets irritated from overuse, swelling and knee pain can result.
  • Osgood-Schlatter Disease. This condition causes a painful bump below the knee, where a tendon from the kneecap connects to the shin. It’s usually caused by overuse and irritation of the tendon. The pain may come and go over time. It’s especially common in teenage boys and girls (13 and 14 years of age).
  • Osteoarthritis . This condition is a frequent cause of knee pain in athletes and non-athletes alike who are over 60.
    Partially dislocated kneecap (or patellar subluxation). In this condition, the kneecap slides out of position, causing knee pain and swelling. It’s often the result of physical defect in your legs, rather than an injury. It’s particularly common in teenage girls
  • Tendonitis , or swelling of the tendons. Tendons are tough bands of tissue that connect your bones and muscles. Overuse can make the tendons inflamed and sore. One type of knee tendonitis is called ”jumper’s knee.”