The Causes of Knee Pain
Knee injuries can affect the fluid-filled sacs (bursae) as well as the tendons and ligaments that surround the knee joint. Damage to the bones and cartilage of the knee(s) can also be the cause of knee pain. Some of the most common causes of knee pain are:
- Injuries – These include damage to the tendons, ligaments, bursae, cartilage, and bones of the knee. Injuries can be sudden and emergent or come up over time as we get older.
- Mechanical problems – Mechanical problems can arise from issues such as an altered gait due to hip or foot pain or a dislocated kneecap.
- Types of arthritis – There are over 100 types of arthritis. If you are living with arthritis, you’re not alone. The Center for Disease Control reports that 24% of American adults are currently suffering from arthritis. The most common types of arthritis that can cause knee pain are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.
- Other problems – Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a term that refers to pain and symptoms arising between the kneecap and the thigh bone.