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
- Physiotherapy: Tailored exercises strengthen muscles, improve flexibility and correct gait issues
- Bracing or Orthotics: These provide additional support and correct biomechanical issues
- Injections: These include corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections which can offer temporary relief for arthritis or inflammation
2. Surgical Treatment
When conservative measures fail or in the case of severe injury, surgery may be necessary. Common procedures include:
- Arthroscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive technique for repairing ligaments, removing damaged cartilage, or addressing meniscal tears
- Partial or Total Knee Replacement: Indicated for advanced arthritis that severely affects quality of life
- Ligament Reconstruction: Particularly for athletes with ACL or PCL tears
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.
