
KNEE PAIN
Overview
Knee pain is a frequent complaint, especially in athletes and older adults. Conditions like meniscus tears, ligament injuries, and osteoarthritis often underlie knee pain.Knee pain can result from acute injuries, like anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears, or from degenerative conditions, such as osteoarthritis.
What causes it
In younger people, sports or overuse injuries often lead to knee pain, whereas osteoarthritis is a common cause in older adults due to cartilage breakdown.
What do you feel
Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, difficulty bending, and “locking” of the knee joint. Severe injuries might also cause instability or inability to bear weight.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention if knee pain results from trauma, causes swelling, or affects weight-bearing ability.
Treatment Outline
Initial treatment often involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with physical therapy. Surgical options, like meniscus repair or knee arthroscopy, may be necessary for more complex cases.
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation focuses on strengthening knee-supporting muscles, with exercises like squats and lunges helping improve function and stability.
