The knee is one the largest and most complicated joints in the body, meaning it has a tendency to generate plenty of complaints from people of all ages, genders, and ethnicities. There are three main ligaments that connect to the kneecap (patella), the disc (meniscus), as well as tendons, muscles, and cartilage all coming together at one point in the body. Because of the shape, location, and amount usage the knee joint gets, it suffers from a wide variety of problems, including overuse, musculoskeletal disorders, sudden injuries, and more.
Symptoms of knee problems include swelling, pain, stiffness, grinding noises, weakness, warmth, popping, instability, redness, and decreased range of motion.
However, what are the direct causes of these symptoms? And how are they classified? Here are the 10 most common causes of knee pain:
Chondromalacia Patella
Chondromalacia patella is a condition that refers to a shortening and deterioration of the cartilage on the underside of the kneecap, also known as patella. The root cause is the improper tracking of the patella as it slides of the femur, but this is often not an isolated event. Improper tracking usually happens as a result of muscular imbalance, tightness in the iliotibial band, or a weakness in the hip rotator muscles. . This condition commonly affects women, with complaints being about a dull ache in front of the knee or behind the kneecap. Prolonged sitting only exacerbates the condition.
Physical therapy is commonly prescribed for chondromalacia patella, since the strengthening and stretching of muscles is necessary for counteracting muscular imbalances. After physical therapy, patients are advised to remember RICE: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Anti-inflammatory medications are usually recommended by doctors to reduce any swelling and pain.
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