Common Knee Pain Causes

Whether you are an athlete, an avid exerciser or even just a couch potato, knee pain is a pretty common affliction. While knee pain is unlikely to indicate any seriously life-threatening conditions, treating the cause of the pain early on is important to avoid long-term damage. Below are a handful of the most common knee pain causes.

Arthritis

Arthritis is the most persistent cause of knee pain. Contrary to popular belief, arthritis does not only effect the elderly. People with a previous history of knee injury, and particularly longtime athletes, are prone to early onset arthritis. Some people are also genetically predisposed to the condition. Knee pain caused by arthritis often manifests itself as a dull but constant pain all the way around the knee.

Injury

If your knee pain came on suddenly, is localized and is severe, then chances are it is the result of a recent injury to the cartilage, ligaments or muscles around your knee. This type of pain eventually goes away so long as the pull or tear is allowed to fully heal.

Dislocation

A dislocated kneecap is another common cause of knee pain. This type of injury is pretty obvious as you can actually see that your cap is out of place. In severe cases, you can even manipulate the cap yourself. If the dislocation is not corrected properly, it can lead to more severe and long-term pain.

There are over a dozen different conditions and injuries that can cause knee pain, but these three examples are the most common. If you are experiencing persistent knee pain, then your best bet is to get a diagnosis from a doctor or chiropractor, so that you can apply the proper treatment and avoid long-term injury or more intense pain.

Treating the cause of knee pain early on is important to avoid long-term damage

by Bane Briller, Medical writer