If you’re dealing with knee pain, you’re not alone. Knee pain is one of the most common complaints that doctors hear. There are several different reasons why your knees might be hurting, but luckily, there are also a number of different treatments that can help. Keep reading to learn more about some of the most common causes of knee pain and what you can do to find relief.
Osteoarthritis
One of the most common causes of knee pain is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions your joints begins to break down. This can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joint.
Several treatment options can help relieve your symptoms if you have osteoarthritis. These include physical therapy, weight loss, exercise, and over-the-counter or prescription medications. Unfortunately, in some cases, surgery may also be necessary.
Bursitis
Another common cause of knee pain is bursitis. Bursitis occurs when the fluid-filled sacs that cushion your joints become inflamed. This can cause pain and swell in the affected area.
If you have bursitis, treatment typically involves resting the affected joint and applying ice to reduce inflammation. You may also need to take over-the-counter or prescription medications to help manage your symptoms. Physical therapy may also be recommended in some cases.
Tendonitis
Tendonitis is another possible cause of knee pain. Tendonitis occurs when the tendons that connect your muscles to your bones become inflamed. This can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected area. Tendonitis can be caused by overuse or repetitive motion.
Treatments typically involve rest, ice, and over-the-counter or prescription medications if you have tendonitis. Physical therapy may also be recommended in some cases.
If you have tendonitis, treatment typically involves resting the affected joint and applying ice to reduce inflammation. You may also need to take over-the-counter or prescription medications to help manage your symptoms. Physical therapy may also be recommended in some cases. Surgery is rarely necessary.
ACL Injury
The ACL, or anterior cruciate ligament, is one of the most important ligaments in your knee. It helps to stabilize your knee joint and keep it from moving too far forward. Unfortunately, this ligament is also one of the most commonly injured, particularly in athletes who participate in sports that involve a lot of cutting and turning movements. You may need surgery to repair the damage if you injure your ACL. A hemp salve can be applied topically to the knee area to help reduce inflammation and pain. It can also be a preventative measure for athletes at risk for ACL injuries.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is another possible cause of knee pain. PFPS occurs when the cartilage on the back of your kneecap becomes worn down. This can cause pain behind or around your kneecap when you bend your knee or walk up or down stairs.
If you have PFPS, treatment typically involves physical therapy exercises that stretch and strengthen the muscles around your kneecap. You may also need to take over-the-counter or prescription medications to help manage your symptoms. Surgery is rarely necessary.
There are several reasons you might be experiencing knee pain—but there’s no need to worry! In most cases, knee pain is treated successfully with conservative measures like rest, ice, and physical therapy exercises. However, suppose you’re still experiencing symptoms after trying these methods. In that case, it’s essential to see a doctor so they can rule out any other potential causes of your knee pain and develop a treatment plan that’s right for you.”
