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Knee pain is a common complaint that affects people of all ages. It can be the result of an injury, such as a torn ligament or cartilage, or a medical condition like arthritis. In this article, we will explore the 10 most common causes of knee pain, their symptoms, and possible treatments.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling in the knee joint[[1]].

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect more than just your joints. In some people, the condition can damage a wide variety of body systems, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. Rheumatoid arthritis in the knee can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness[[2]].

Gout

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that develops in some people who have high levels of uric acid in the blood. The acid can form needle-like crystals in a joint and cause sudden, severe episodes of pain, tenderness, redness, warmth, and swelling in the knee[[2]].

Ligament Injuries

Ligament injuries, such as a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or medial collateral ligament (MCL), are common in athletes and can cause pain, swelling, and instability in the knee[[3]].

Meniscus Tears

The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that provides a cushion between your femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone). A meniscus tear can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee joint[[3]].

Tendinitis

Tendinitis is the inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the thick fibrous cords that attach muscle to bone. In the knee, tendinitis can cause pain and tenderness just below the kneecap or at the back of the knee[[1]].

Bursitis

Bursitis is the inflammation of the small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the outside of your knee joint. It can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness in the knee[[1]].

Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Iliotibial band syndrome occurs when the tough band of tissue that extends from the outside of your hip to the outside of your knee (iliotibial band) becomes so tight that it rubs against the outer portion of your femur. Distance runners are especially susceptible to iliotibial band syndrome, which can cause pain on the outside of the knee[[1]].

Dislocated Kneecap

A dislocated kneecap occurs when the triangular bone (patella) that covers the front of your knee slips out of place, usually to the outside of your knee. This can cause pain and swelling in the knee[[1]].

Baker’s Cyst

A Baker’s cyst is a fluid-filled cyst that causes a bulge and a feeling of tightness behind your knee. The pain can get worse when you fully flex or extend your knee or when you’re active[[1]].

In conclusion, knee pain can be caused by a variety of factors, from injuries to medical conditions. If you are experiencing knee pain, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the cause and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent further damage and improve your quality of life.