What Causes Knee Pain
The knee is the largest joint in the body, and
plays a large role in many different daily activities such as walking, squatting, and climbing stairs. The knee joint is home to many complex structures. Injury to one or multiple components of the knee can result in a variety of symptoms and limitations. Injury to the ligaments or menisci of the knee can lead to a sensation of instability or locking of the knee, such as after an ACL or meniscal tear. Muscular control problems or weakness can lead to pain beneath the kneecap (patellofemoral pain), joint or tendon inflammation, and crepitus (grinding or crackling from friction). Arthritic changes are common in the knee, and
physical therapy can be helpful as a non-surgical treatment or as rehabilitation after joint replacement surgery. Regardless of the cause for knee pain, physical therapy is often helpful for reducing pain.
Symptoms and Diagnoses of Knee Pain
- Knee, thigh, or lower leg pain or stiffness
- Reduced flexibility
- Swelling
- Leg weakness
- Poor balance/falls
- Clicking or popping in the knee joint
- Limping or difficulty walking
- Feeling of instability on the affected leg
- Pain with prolonged sitting or standing
- Difficulty standing from chairs
- Difficulty putting on socks and shoes
