A common problem that can originate in any of the bony structures compromising the knee joint is known as Knee pain. It is a complaint that affects people of almost all ages and can be a symptom of many different knee conditions or injuries. Knee pain can be bothered by exercising and can thus affect the surrounding muscles and their movements. If you suffer from Knee pain and looking for an answer to your question ‘What is Knee Pain?’, then this is a must read article for you. There are many types of Knee Pain. Bilateral and Anterior Knee Pain are two most commonly experienced among different types of knee pains.
What is Bilateral knee pain?
This kind of pain tends to develop over time as your knee joints are subjected to wear and tear. The wear and tear of your knee joints results from repetitive motions, overuse and being overweight.
What is Anterior Knee Pain?
The pain that occurs in the anterior and central aspect of the knee is known as Anterior knee pain. It is also known by the name of front knee pain because it occurs at the front and center of the knee. This kind of pains begins when the kneecap does not move properly and is more common in people who are overweight, have had a dislocation, fracture, or other injury to the kneecap.
The cause of your knee pain can determine the symptoms you experience. Each person experience different levels of chronic knee pain. Knee pain can be divided into three major categories:
- Acute injury: such as a broken bone, torn ligament, or any tear
- Medical conditions: arthritis, infections
- Chronic use/overuse conditions: osteoarthritis, tendinitis, and bursitis
Causes of Knee Pain
- Fractures
Knee fractures are not only painful but will also interfere with the proper functioning of the knee. They even make it very painful to bear the body weight.
- Ligament injuries
This kind of injuries usually is sports related which mostly happens due to a sudden stop and change in directions.
- Dislocation
Sometimes knee joint can be dislocated and in that condition, it requires immediate attention. It is a medical emergency when the knee dislocation can compromise blood flow to the leg.
- Patellar tendinitis
Irritation and inflammation of one or more tendons is called Tendinitis which are thick, fibrous tissues that attach muscles to bones
- Arthritis
The wear-and-tear condition that occurs when the cartilage in your knee deteriorates with use and age.
What causes knee pain and swelling?
Some common symptoms of knee pain an individual might experience are:
- Constant ache
- Locking of the knee
- Difficulty walking due to instability of the knee
- Redness and swelling
- Sharp, shooting pain when in use
- Inability to extend the knee
- Dull burning discomfort
- Shifting weight to the opposite knee
Prevent knee pain by doing certain exercises which will help in strengthening the leg muscles and help in preventing injury. In addition to this, proper nutrition, is also important for maintaining knee health.
