Knee pain is among the most common complaints, alongside back pain. The cause of knee pain is often difficult to identify, and it affects everyday functioning.

What are the main symptoms of knee conditions?

Although symptoms vary depending on the condition, the most common are:

pain, which can take different forms depending on the condition and may appear at rest or during everyday activities
joint locking
an inability to fully extend and flex the knee
swelling of the knee
a feeling of instability when walking or during sport
joint crepitus (when the knee creaks on movement)

Possible causes of knee pain

In diagnosing knee pain, seeing a specialist is essential in order to establish both the diagnosis and the treatment needed to return to full function. The most common cause of knee pain is overuse, through intense effort. Beyond this, knee pain can also be caused by:

Acute injuries such as:
- patellofemoral pain syndrome
- fractures;
- ligament tears (anterior cruciate ligament, posterior cruciate ligament, etc.);
- meniscal injuries;
- contusions;
- sprains;
- conditions of the kneecap;
- dislocations.
- Tendinitis
- bursitis
Chronic injuries:
- tendinitis;
- bursitis;
- knee osteoarthritis;
- degenerative cartilage damage.

How to look after your knee yourself

The first step is to see an orthopaedic surgeon, who will guide you on what needs to be done for diagnosis and treatment. If you cannot get to a doctor quickly, however, you can take the following steps to ease the pain or speed up healing until you are seen:

Limit intense physical activity and take frequent breaks

Since overuse is one of the most common causes of knee pain, and the joint is already vulnerable, it is important not to put additional pressure on the knee and to rest the joint as much as possible, to create the right conditions for healing.

Use cold compresses as needed

Cold compresses with ice have an anti-inflammatory effect and are particularly useful if the knee is swollen or red. You can apply a cold compress for at least 20–30 minutes every 3–4 hours, over 2–3 days.

Know your limits

Sport is one of the best ways to maintain the health of the skeletal system and of the body as a whole. It is important, however, to know your limits and to stop training if knee pain appears. Equally, if you are returning to activity after recovering from knee pain, increase the intensity of your training gradually.

Take up sporting activities with a rehabilitative role

Another very good way to stay active even when you have knee pain is through sporting activities with a rehabilitative role. These include stretching (which strengthens the muscles and protects the knee joints), physiotherapy and kinesiotherapy. Remember that every body heals at its own pace. If you need help recovering safely from knee pain, contact a specialist now!

Staying Active When You Have Knee Pain

What are the main symptoms of knee conditions?

Possible causes of knee pain

How to look after your knee yourself

Dr. Ion Bogdan Codorean

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