Knee pain usually results from overuse, poor form during physical activity, not warming up or cooling down, or inadequate stretching. Simple causes of knee pain often clear up on their own with self care. Being overweight can put you at greater risk for knee problems.
Knee pain can be caused by:
Arthritis -- including rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout
Baker's cyst -- a fluid-filled swelling behind the knee that may accompany inflammation from other causes, like arthritis
Bursitis -- inflammation from repeated pressure on the knee, such as kneeling for long periods of time, overuse, or injury
Many causes of knee pain, especially those related to overuse or physical activity, respond well to self-care:
Rest and avoid activities that aggravate the pain, especially weight bearing activities.
Apply ice. First, apply it every hour for up to 15 minutes. After the first day, apply it at least 4 times per day.
Keep your knee elevated as much as possible to bring any swelling down.
Gently compress the knee by wearing an ace bandage or elastic sleeve. Either can be purchased at most pharmacies. This may reduce swelling and provide support.
Take acetaminophen for pain or ibuprofen for pain and swelling.
Sleep with a pillow underneath or between your knees.
MRI of the knee if a ligament or meniscus tear is suspected
Your doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that are stronger than those available over-the-counter. If those don't help, your doctor may inject a steroid to reduce pain and inflammation.
Referrals to a physical therapist (to learn stretching and strengthening exercises) and podiatrist (to be fitted for orthotics) may be necessary. These help prevent repeated problems.
In some cases, surgery is needed. For example, if arthritis is severe, a joint replacement may be recommended. Minor ligament strain will heal with home care and torn ligaments may recover with use of a knee brace. However, for significant tears or ruptures, as well as a torn meniscus, arthroscopic knee surgery is often needed.
Recovery from ligament and meniscus problems is slow. Crutches and extended physical therapy may be needed.
Increase your activity level slowly over time. For example, when you begin exercising again, walk rather than run.
Always warm up before exercising and cool down afterward. Stretch your quadriceps and hamstrings.
Replace your sports shoes often. Get good advice about proper footwear for your foot shape and mechanics. For example, if you pronate (land on the outside of your heel and turn your foot inward), consider anti-pronation footwear.
Labropoulos N, Shifrin DA, Paxinos O. New insights into the development of popliteal cysts. Br J Surg. 2004; 91(10): 1313-1318.
Fithian DC. Fate of the anterior cruciate ligament-injured knee. Orthop Clin North Am. 2002; 33(4): 621-636, v.
Update Date:
7/25/2007Updated by:
Andrew L. Chen, M.D., M.S., Orthopedist, The Alpine Clinic, Littleton, NH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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