Stiff knees can be caused by arthritis, tendonitis, muscle injuries, and cartilage injuries. Treatment options include rest, ice, pain management techniques, and surgery. A misaligned kneecap can also cause stiffness and discomfort and requires a visit to the doctor for treatment options.
Arthritis, tendonitis, muscle injuries, and cartilage injuries are perhaps the most common causes of stiff knees, although there are other causes. Muscles and tendons, as well as the ligaments in the joint, can lead to stiff knees from injury, overuse, or lack of conditioning. Arthritis can lead to stiff knees as the cartilage and ligaments in the knee begin to break down and degrade. Most knee problems that lead to stiffness are not very serious conditions, although some problems that lead to stiffness can be quite serious and require further medical attention such as medications, surgery, or physical therapy.
Muscle stiffness can lead to stiffness in the knees as well. The muscles that attach to the bones near the knees can become tight or just tight from overuse or lack of conditioning. A muscle strain occurs when the fibers that make up the muscle tear slightly, causing pain. That pain and stiffness can radiate to the knees and can also cause stress on other parts of the knee. Ice and rest can help relieve pain and stiffness, and after a few days, the pain should go away. If the pain and stiffness persist, it may be worth visiting a doctor.
Arthritis is a degenerative condition that commonly occurs in people as they age. The cartilage and ligaments in the knee begin to break down, causing the knee to move in ways it otherwise wouldn’t bend; the tendons can become inflamed, causing pain and stiffness in the knees. There is no cure for arthritis, but pain management techniques can be used to reduce stiffness and pain. Treatments may include using topical ointments, anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications, or participating in a regular exercise routine and stretching regimen. More severe cases of arthritis may require partial or complete knee replacement surgery, which can be a painful process with an extended recovery time.
Sometimes the kneecap can move for a variety of reasons, causing discomfort and stiffness in the knees. Inflammation can cause the kneecap to misalign, as well as other conditions such as bursitis, damaged cartilage, and direct trauma. A misaligned kneecap can lead to mild to severe pain, or it can simply cause stiff knees and discomfort. A visit to the doctor can help a patient find the best treatment options, as those treatments will change depending on the cause of the kneecap problem and the severity of the injury.
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