Senior Consultant with Over 18 Years of Experience
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Overview
Knee pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints among people of all ages. From young athletes to
the elderly, knee discomfort can interfere with daily activities, limit mobility, and affect quality of life. In
this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about knee pain, including when to see an orthopaedic
specialist.
By Arete Orthopaedic Centre
Medically Reviewed by Dr Wang Lushun
Understanding the Anatomy of the Knee
The knee is a complex hinge joint where the thigh bone (femur), shin bone (tibia), and kneecap (patella) meet.
It is supported by a network of muscles, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage that work together to enable movement
and provide stability.
Key structures in the knee include:
Ligaments: The ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL stabilize the knee joint
Cartilage: The menisci act as shock absorbers between the femur and tibia
Tendons: Connect muscles to bones, allowing for flexion and extension.
Bursa: Fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction during movement
Due to its complexity and the weight it bears, the knee is particularly prone to injury and wear and tear.
What are Common Causes of Knee Pain?
Knee pain can arise from acute injuries, chronic conditions, or mechanical problems. Some of the most frequent causes include:
1. Injuries
Ligament Injuries: Tears in the ACL or MCL often occur during sports that involve sudden stops or changes in direction
Meniscal Tears: Often caused by twisting or rotating the knee while bearing weight
Fractures: Broken bones in the knee area can result from trauma or falls
Dislocation: The kneecap can slip out of place, often requiring realignment
2. Arthritis
Osteoarthritis: Degenerative joint disease due to cartilage breakdown, common in older adults
Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune condition that causes inflammation in the knee joint
Gout: Accumulation of uric acid crystals in the knee, causing sudden pain and swelling
3. Mechanical Issues
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: Pain around the kneecap, often from overuse or misalignment
Iliotibial Band Syndrome: Common in runners and cyclists, this causes lateral knee pain due to friction of the IT band against the femur
Baker’s Cyst: A fluid-filled swelling behind the knee, often a sign of another underlying condition like arthritis
Symptoms of Knee Problems to Look Out For
The symptoms of knee issues can vary based on the underlying cause. These often include:
Pain: Sharp, dull, or throbbing pain localized in the front, back, or sides of the knee
Swelling: Indicative of inflammation or fluid build-up within the joint
Instability: A feeling that the knee may give way or buckle
Stiffness: Limited range of motion or difficulty in bending and straightening the knee
Clicking or Popping Sounds: May suggest cartilage damage or ligament injuries
Locking: When the knee gets stuck in one position due to mechanical interference
If symptoms persist beyond a few days, worsen over time, or are associated with trauma, please seek medical attention from a knee specialist.
What to Expect During a Knee Evaluation
During your consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon, a thorough history and physical examination will be conducted. This will include:
X-rays: To detect fractures or misalignment
MRI Scans: Good for visualising soft tissue injuries like ligament tears and meniscal damage
Ultrasound: Useful for identifying fluid build-up or tendon abnormalities
Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure where a camera is inserted into the knee for a detailed look at the joint interior
What are the Treatments for Knee Pain?
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your knee pain. Options range from conservative management to surgical intervention, such as:
1. Non-Surgical Treatment
Rest and Activity Modification: Avoid activities that worsen symptoms
Ice and Compression: Reduce swelling and alleviate pain
Medication: NSAIDs help manage inflammation and discomfort
Your knee surgeon will recommend surgery only if it is deemed the best option for restoring function and alleviating pain.
How Can I Prevent Knee Pain?
While not all causes of knee pain are preventable, certain lifestyle modifications can reduce your risk:
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess body weight increases stress on the knee joints
Exercise Regularly: Focus on low-impact activities like swimming or cycling that strengthen leg muscles without overloading the joints
Warm-Up Before Activity: Proper stretching and warm-up reduce injury risk
Use Proper Technique: Whether lifting weights or playing sports, correct form can help protect your knees
Choose Supportive Footwear: Shoes with good arch support and cushioning can help align your body properly
When to See an Orthopaedic Knee Surgeon
Consult a knee specialist if:
You experience severe or sudden knee pain after injury
Swelling or redness persists
Your knee feels unstable or cannot bear weight
Conservative treatments fail to provide relief
You hear a pop and your knee gives out
Early intervention can prevent further damage and improve your long-term outcome. For more information, please make an appointment with our clinic at 8772 6928.
Dr Wang Lushun is a Senior Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon with over 18 years of experience. Formerly heading
the Hip and Knee Division at Ng Teng Fong Hospital, Dr Wang is skilled in sports surgery, complex hip and
knee replacements, and minimally invasive surgery, including advanced robotic surgery. Trained in the UK and
France, Dr Wang is dedicated to providing comprehensive and effective orthopaedic care to all his patients.
Trusted
Leadership on Orthopaedic Advisory Boards
Skilful
Double Fellowships at Centres of Excellence
Experienced
Senior Consultant with Over 18 Years of Experience
