16/05/2024
Major player in knee pain.
Cartilage Damage:
As mentioned earlier, breakdown of the smooth cartilage cushioning the bones is a major source of knee pain. This can be caused by wear and tear (osteoarthritis), injury, or other diseases.
Ligament and Tendon Issues:
Ligaments connect bones, and tendons connect muscles to bones. Tears, sprains, or inflammation in these structures can cause significant pain, instability, and limited movement in the knee.
Meniscus Tears:
The menisci are C-shaped pieces of cartilage that act as shock absorbers and stabilizers within the knee joint. Tears in the meniscus are a common cause of knee pain, particularly in athletes.
Muscle Imbalances:
Weak or tight muscles around the knee can lead to improper joint alignment and increased stress on the joint structures, resulting in pain.
Bursitis:
Bursae are fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. Inflammation of a bursa (bursitis) around the knee can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness.
Baker's cyst:
This is a fluid-filled sac that develops behind the knee joint, often caused by inflammation or irritation within the joint. It can cause pain, tightness, and limited bending of the knee.
Patellar Issues: Patellar instability (kneecap misalignment) or patellar tendonitis (inflammation of the tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone) can both cause knee pain.