Knee pain is one of the most common medical complaints among both men and women, and it's no wonder: The knees are certainly one of the most-used joints in the body, helping us stand, bend, lift, walk and perform myriad other tasks, all while supporting the weight and strain of the rest of the body. The joint itself isn't quite as complex as other joints, and it's also not as mobile and flexible – movement is largely restricted to front-to-back bending, with a limited ability to twist side to side. And that can make it more prone to injury.
What Causes Pain
Located where the upper leg bone (femur) and large lower leg bone (tibia) meet, the knee joint also comprises the kneecap (patella) and several large ligaments, as well as a pair of cartilage “wedges,” each of which is called a meniscus, that helps cushion the knee and protect it from impact-related damage. Any of these structures can become damaged, and some of the most common causes of knee pain include fractures of any of the three bones, ligament sprains or tears, meniscal tears, and of course, degenerative changes due to arthritis. Range of motion (or ROM) and flexibility are also usually affected, and there may be swelling or grinding or “popping” sensations in the joint.
How To Get Help
Knee pain can rapidly become much worse without prompt attention, and many injuries can also cause joint inflammation that can lead to arthritis and permanent damage to the joint surfaces. If you're having knee pain or related symptoms, call our office today to schedule an evaluation.