Knee Pain

Knee pain has many causes and affects one in three adults over the age of 45. While it often develops as a result sports injuries, it can affect almost anyone. The most common forms of knee pain include the following:

• Ligament injuries – ligaments are tough, fibrous bands of tissue that connect bone to bone. In the knee joint, there are four primary ligaments: the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL) and the lateral collateral ligament (LCL). The ligaments bind the bones of the upper leg to lower leg and control knee stability, flexion and extension.
• Tendon injuries – tendons attach muscles to bones. Skiers, runners, cyclists and other athletes often experience knee pain when the tendons become inflamed due to injury, overuse or biomechanical problems.
• Meniscus injuries – the meniscus is a C-shaped section of cartilage that cushions the ends of the upper leg bone from the lower leg bone. Over time, the meniscus can wear thin, fracture or develop folds that result pain and loss of range of motion in the knee joint.
• Bursitis –bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that help to reduce force on the knee by cushioning the ligaments and the upper leg bone from the lower leg bones. Bursae can lose their effectiveness over time or as the result of injury.
• Loose bodies – overuse and injuries can often cause small pieces of meniscus or bone tissue to become dislodged and float freely inside the joint space. If the piece interferes with knee flexion or extension, it can cause pain and swelling.
• Iliotibial band syndrome – the iliotibial band is a long, fibrous ligament that attaches to the outside of the pelvis, runs down the outside of the leg and connects to the outside of the tibia of the lower leg. Runners and cyclists may experience pain on the outside of the knee joint as a result of inflammation during repetitive movements.
• Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis – Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis are debilitating conditions that can affect almost any joint in the body, athletes and non-athletes alike. They produce pain, swelling, aching and stiffness. Left untreated, they can result in permanent loss of range of motion.

If you are experiencing prolonged knee pain, see a physician or physical therapist for a full evaluation of your knee. Once a diagnosis is made, medication, surgery or therapy may be recommended. Working with a physical therapist can be beneficial in allowing you to overcome your injury as quickly and safely as possible – getting you back on the field, court, or work as quickly and safely as possible.

For more information regarding knee injuries email info@proaxistherapy.com. To make an appointment for therapy, please call Proaxis Therapy at (864) 454-0904.