What is knee pain?
Acute injuries
Knee pain is a common problem that can originate in any of the bony structures compromising the knee joint (femur, tibia, fibula), the kneecap ( patella ), or the ligaments and cartilage ( meniscus ) of the knee. Knee pain can affect people of all ages, and home. The location of the knee pain can vary depending on which structure is involved. With infection, the whole knee might be swollen and painful, while a torn meniscus or fracture of a bone gives symptoms only in one specific location.
The severity of the pain can vary, from a minor ache to a severe and disabling pain.
Some of the other findings that accompany knee pain are:
- Difficulty Walking due to instability of the knee
- Limping due to discomfort
- Locking of the knee (unable to bend the knee)
- Redness and swelling
- Inability to extend the knee
Remedies can be helpful unless it becomes severe.
Knee pain can be divided into three major categories:
- Acute injury: Such as a Broken Bone , torn ligament
- Medical conditions: A Rthritis , infections
- Chronic use/overuse conditions: Osteoarthritis , patellar syndromes, tendinitis, and Bursitis
Below is a list of some of the more frequent causes of knee pain. This is not an all-inclusive list but rather highlights a few causes of knee pain in each of the above categories.
Fractures: Direct trauma to the bony structure can cause one of the bones in the knee to break. This is usually a very obvious and painful injury. Most knee fractures are not only painful but will also interfere with the proper functioning of the knee (such as kneecap fracture) or make it very painful to bear weight (such as tibial plateau fracture). All fractures need immediate medical attention.
Ligament injuries: The most common injury is the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injury. This is often a sports-related injury due to a sudden stop and change in directions.
Meniscus injuries: The menisci (medial and lateral) are made of cartilage and act as shock absorbers between bones in the knee. Twisting the knee can injure the meniscus.
Dislocation: The knee joint can be dislocated, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. This injury often occurs during a motor-vehicle accident when the knee hits the dashboard.
Our Doctors routinely see the success in treating knee conditions in South Florida and we routinely refer to other medical specialists when needed. For effective relief of knee pain, call All Broward Chiropractic at 954-443-2420.
