Overview
What is knee pain?
Knee pain refers to any discomfort in or around the knee joint. It can be caused by injuries, overuse, or conditions like arthritis. Pain may affect one or both knees and can limit daily activities.
How common is knee pain?
Knee pain is extremely common, especially in athletes, older adults, or people with physically demanding jobs.
What are the symptoms of knee pain?
- Swelling or stiffness
- Redness or warmth to the touch
- Weakness or instability
- Popping or crunching noises
- Inability to fully straighten the knee
What causes knee pain?
Common causes include ligament or cartilage injuries, arthritis, tendonitis, or bursitis. Repetitive strain or overuse can also lead to chronic pain.
What are the risk factors?
- Sports participation
- Excess weight
- Age-related wear and tear
- Previous knee injuries
- Weak muscles or improper movement patterns
When does it usually start?
Knee pain can begin suddenly due to injury or develop gradually from overuse or arthritis, especially in people over 40.