By Dr. John A. Papa,
DC, FCCPOR(C)
Knee pain is often caused by either a one-time acute
injury or repetitive motions that stress the knee, particularly as we age. Included below are some of the conditions
that commonly cause knee pain:
· Osteoarthritis results from the protective layers of cartilage in the knee becoming worn over a period
of time, leading to change in the composition of the bone underneath the
cartilage. This may result in a number
of symptoms including: joint pain and
stiffness, decreased ranges of motion, weakness, swelling, inflammation, and instability.
· Patellofemoral pain syndrome refers to knee conditions that involve the
kneecap and/or the structures around it. Pain can be generated by breakdown of the cartilage
under the kneecap, tight or weak muscles around the kneecap, or misalignment of
the kneecap.
· Meniscal injuries directly involve tearing/damage to the
cartilage cushioning in the knee. This
type of injury can result from a sporting event or fall where the knee
undergoes a sudden twisting motion or impact.
It can also occur in older individuals who
develop a chronic tear in a worn-out meniscus.
· Ligaments are tough
bands of fibrous tissue that connect one bone to another. They help stabilize joints, preventing
excessive movement. Ligament injuries can
occur when these structures become over-stretched or torn, often
during activities where there is a direct blow to the knee or there is an
awkward fall or twisting motion involving the knee.
· Tendons are strong tissues that anchor muscles to bones, and these structures can become torn or inflamed
around the knee joint leading to tendonitis
and muscular strains.
· Bursitis can involve several
fluid-filled structures in your knee that help provide more cushioning in the
joint. Certain activities, such as
kneeling on the floor, can cause a bursa to become irritated.
Below are some useful tips that can help individuals avoid
or minimize the chance of knee pain and injury:
1. Maintain a healthy bodyweight to decrease the overall stress on your knees.
2. Wear appropriate footwear that supports your activities and helps maintain
proper leg alignment and balance.
3. Prepare your knees for physical
activity by stimulating the joints and muscles, and increasing
circulation. This can be accomplished
with a quick cardiovascular warm-up and gentle stretching of the muscles in the
thighs and lower legs.
4. Choose activities that are knee friendly for you. This may include low impact activities such as walking or cycling. Remember to start slowly and build up the
intensity gradually.
5. Strength, balance and flexibility exercises can train your
leg muscles to better support your knees and avoid injuries.
In
the event that you suffer a knee injury that does not subside, you should
contact a licensed health professional who deals in the diagnosis and treatment
of knee pain. For additional information
on knee pain and treatment of muscle and joint injuries,
visit www.nhwc.ca.
This article is a
basic summary for educational purposes only.
It is not intended, and should not be considered, as a replacement for
consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a duly licensed health practitioner.
