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Knee Pain
Knee Pain
It’s quite common for people to feel discomfort in one or both knees. Since the knee bears the body’s weight and allows for many movements, it’s vulnerable to wear-and-tear, injury, or health conditions that can damage the bones or soft tissues. The sections below explain what causes knee pain, how it’s diagnosed, and common treatment options.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a general term that refers to over 100 different conditions involving joint pain or joint disease. It affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds, though it’s more commonly diagnosed in women.
Bursitis
Bursitis refers to the inflammation of a bursa, a small, fluid-filled sac found in the musculoskeletal system.
Musculoskeletal Pain
Musculoskeletal pain is a widespread issue with a variety of underlying causes, which can make it challenging for doctors to pinpoint the exact source.
Osteoporosis
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, nearly 10 million Americans have the condition, while another 44 million have low bone density, increasing their risk of developing osteoporosis.
Understanding the Knee Joint
The knee is a complex joint, and problems can arise in any of its parts. It connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia), and its structure allows for bending, straightening, turning, and other movements such as walking, running, jumping, and squatting. The knee is also capable of slight rotation.
Because it’s involved in nearly all lower body movements, even mild pain can interfere with everyday activities. The main components of the knee include:
- Bones – The knee joint is formed where the femur meets the tibia. The fibula runs alongside the tibia and helps support ligament connections. The patella (kneecap) is another key bone in the joint.
- Ligaments – Four strong bands of tissue connect the bones and keep the joint stable.
- Tendons – These fibrous tissues attach muscles to bones. Notable ones include the quadriceps tendon, linking the thigh muscle to the kneecap, and the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the tibia. Tendons help the leg extend or straighten.
- Cartilage – The meniscus is made of cartilage and acts as a cushion between bones.
- Bursa – Small sacs filled with fluid that reduce friction and help absorb shock in the joint.
Common Causes of Knee Pain
Many different issues can lead to knee pain, since all parts of the joint can be affected. Typical causes include:
- Conditions like arthritis
- Inflammation due to other health problems not directly related to the knee
- Physical injuries or trauma
- Muscle imbalance or poor muscle coordination
- Bone alignment problems
- Age-related tissue degeneration
- Overuse or repeated stress on the knee
- Heavy lifting or other strenuous physical activity
- Loose fragments of bone or cartilage in the joint
- Infections
- Changes in walking pattern due to hip or foot problems, which can strain the knee
Who Is More Likely to Have Knee Pain?
- Certain people are more prone to knee issues, including:
- Individuals who are inactive, leading to weaker muscles and ligaments
- Those who are overweight or obese
- Athletes or people involved in activities like running or skiing
- Workers whose jobs involve repeated motions or heavy lifting
- People who have had a previous knee injury
Pain Clinic Locations
Gilbert Office
1466 West Elliot Rd
Gilbert, AZ 85233
Phone: 480-496-2699
Fax: 877-422-3184
Tempe Office
(Procedure Location)
2000 E Southern Ave
Suite 106/108
Tempe, AZ 85282
Casa Grande Office
(Satellite Office)
1637 E Monument Plaza Circle
Suite 1
Casa Grande, AZ 85122