Knee problems can be caused by injury, arthritis, and tendonitis. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and weakness. Treatment may include rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and surgery.
Most people experience knee problems sooner or later. Some individuals develop such problems at an early age, while others may experience them as they age. Injury is one of the most common causes of knee problems. Conditions affecting the joints, such as arthritis and tendonitis, may also be contributing factors. One of the most common reasons for visiting an orthopedic doctor is due to knee problems.
Knee problems commonly result from an injury. The injury can occur from an automobile accident or direct physical trauma to the knee while playing sports or participating in some other form of physical activity. Sometimes, a normal course of walking that may involve a sudden turn or twist of the knee can lead to injury. A bone fracture and damage to the ligaments and muscles of the knee can be caused by a knee injury.
A bruise can be the first indication of an injured knee. The knee can be scarred and discolored soon after an injury. In addition to pain, there may also be swelling in the knee. A hard fall to the knee can cause bruising. Typically, after this type of injury, elevation, freezing of the knee, and rest may be all the treatment needed. Most of the time, it will be important to avoid putting too much pressure on the knee until the bruise and pain are gone.
The injuries sometimes result in a knee sprain. A sprain can occur if the knee ligaments are stretched too far beyond their normal position. The purpose of ligaments is to hold bones together in fixed positions. Pain is a common symptom of this knee problem and resting the knee and applying a compression bandage if swelling is present is generally the most prescribed form of treatment.
Other common knee problems can include knee strains and knee hyperextension. A strain generally occurs when the tendons and muscles in the knee are damaged, usually as a result of an injury. Overstretching these tendons and muscles in activities such as running or playing contact sports are some common ways to cause this type of injury. Knee hyperextension is the name given to overstretching or straightening the knee too far beyond its normal capacity. This knee problem can result from years of overuse or an injury.
Arthritis and tendonitis can develop in the joints and cause further knee problems. Over time, arthritis or inflammation in the joints can cause the cartilage in the joints to wear down. Knee tendonitis is another condition that can cause inflammation, swelling, and irritation in the knee tendons. Both of these conditions generally cause pain, swelling, and stiffness.
The symptoms and treatment methods for knee problems vary depending on the type of problem present. Most problems caused by injuries have general knee symptoms such as pain, swelling, and weakness in the knee, especially right after the injury. Conditions such as arthritis also commonly cause pain in addition to stiffness in the joints, which can make walking difficult. Doctors often prescribe anti-inflammatory medications for treatment, and in some cases, a protective device such as a brace may be provided to support the knee and give it an opportunity to heal. In some situations, surgery may be needed to repair severe damage and return the knee to a normal level of activity.
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