Understanding the common causes of knee pain is crucial for identifying the most effective treatments and regaining control of your body’s harmony.

• Arthritis: The most common type of arthritis for knee pain is osteoarthritis (OA). This condition occurs when the cartilage surrounding your joints deteriorates, leading to joint inflammation, pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
• Cartilage Injuries: There are two common cartilage injuries that affect the knee: meniscus injury and articular cartilage injury. These injuries often occur from twisting your knee while bearing weight or trauma. Repetitive movements or prolonged inactivity can also cause cartilage to fray and tear.
• Ligament Injuries: Ligaments are connective tissues that stabilize the knee. Ligament injuries often occur from sudden stops, twists, or direct blows to the knee. These injuries can significantly impact your knee’s stability.
• Tendinitis: Tendinitis refers to inflammation of the tendon, commonly caused by repetitive movements. It is prevalent in activities like jumping, skiing, cycling, or sports involving frequent changes in direction. Patellar tendinitis (inflammation of the patellar tendon) is particularly common in runners, cyclists, and those who perform jumping motions, making everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or even rising from a chair painful.
• Patellar Dislocation: This occurs when the kneecap slides out of its place, often caused by sudden changes in direction or knee twisting. Patellar dislocation can cause intense pain and instability in the knee.

In some cases, knee pain may indicate an underlying issue elsewhere, such as in the foot or hip regions. A comprehensive evaluation by our Physical Therapists will help determine the true cause of your knee pain.