Knee Pain

The most common cause of knee pain is chondromalacia, which is a softening of the cartilage underneath the kneecap.

A sudden injury or an underlying condition, such as knee arthritis, which is caused by wear and tears on the joints, can also result in pain that needs medical attention. When the pain is specific to a spot in the knee then it is usually a fracture or torn tendons or muscle. When the entire knee is in pain and swollen then it could be a result of inflammation or infection. When it comes to minor pain, most people will choose to sit it out in the hope that it will go away on its own, but like any other kind of pain, different people have a different pain threshold. If the pain is unbearable and constant over a long period of time, it is time to see a doctor.

How to prevent knee pain

Unnecessary extra body weight has a large impact on your knees. Large amounts of extra weight put you at greater risk of osteoarthritis. This is because it accelerates the breakdown of joint cartilage. It is crucial that you maintain a healthy weight, it is one of the best things you can do to keep your knees healthy. Lack of muscle flexibility or strength due to limited movement or exercise tight weak muscles that are unable to offer sufficient support to the knees. Too much rest can be a problem. The lack of motion can also lead to weak muscles which worsen joint pain. Cardio exercises strengthen the muscles that support your knees and improve balance. There are a large number of people who are clumsy which increases their risk of falling. If you believe you are part of this group, there are a few things you can do to curb the risk. Ensure that your home is well lit, use the handrails on staircases, and use a sturdy ladder or footstool if you need to reach something from a high shelf.

Pain management solutions

• RICE Method (Rest the knee, Ice the knee, Compression, Elevation)
• Physical therapy
• Weight loss
• Walking aid
• Medications
• Knee muscular/ tendon re-attachment surgery
• Knee replacement

Too much rest can be a problem. The lack of motion can also lead to weak muscles which worsen joint pain. Cardio exercises strengthen the muscles that support your knees and improve balance. There are a large number of people who are clumsy which increases their risk of falling. If you believe you are part of this group, there are a few things you can do to curb the risk. Ensure that your home is well lit, use the handrails on staircases, use a sturdy ladder or footstool if you need to reach something from a high shelf.