Knee pain could signal deeper issues: what are they and what you can do about it
Your knees support every move you make—and when they hurt, it’s often a sign of deeper issues. Knee pain can stem from injury, overuse, age-related wear, arthritis, and more.
Sudden accidents or repetitive strain can damage essential knee structures like ligaments and cartilage. Examples include ACL tears and meniscus injuries, common in sports or physical jobs.
Daily stress, especially from repetitive movements, can erode knee cartilage. Athletes and older adults often experience chronic pain due to joint strain and overuse.
Osteoarthritis wears down joint cushioning, while rheumatoid arthritis inflames tissue, both leading to chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Conditions like patellofemoral pain syndrome (“runner’s knee”) and iliotibial band syndrome target specific areas—front or side of the knee—often worsening with activity.
Fluid-filled Baker’s cysts, infected or swollen bursae, and disorders like gout or lupus can also manifest as knee pain—sometimes hinting at deeper issues.
Knowing where you feel pain (front, back, inside, outside) and what triggers it helps pinpoint the cause. This guide can prepare you for smarter doctor conversations and quicker relief.
