Knee Pain
The Causes of Knee Pain and the Available Treatments
Knee pain is a problem that many people suffer from. While many of us will experience knee pain as a natural part of aging, there are also some common conditions and diseases that can cause or exacerbate this pain.
Treatment for knee pain is dependent on what is causing the pain. Let's start by taking a look at some of the common reasons people suffer from knee pain that Dr. Holl see here at Complete Balance Chiropractic.
What are Some of the Common Types of Knee Injuries?
The following are common types of knee injuries that Dr. Holl sees frequently:
ACL Injury
This injury involves a tear to the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament). The ACL is one of four ligaments that connect the shinbone to the thighbone. People who play sports are particularly at risk for suffering an ACL injury.
Torn Meniscus
The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between the shinbone and thighbone. Anyone can suffer a torn meniscus simply by turning the knee the wrong way unexpectedly.
Bursitis
Bursitis is a condition that affects the small fluid sacs that cushion the outside of the knee joints. With bursitis, these sacs become inflamed and irritated, and can reduce the ability of the knee tendons and ligaments to glide smoothly as they should.
Patellar Tendonitis
Tendonitis is a condition where the tendons of the knee are affected. People who perform certain sports such as cycling and running are particularly at risk of developing Patellar Tendonitis. Dr. Holl treats these conditions quite often.
Mechanical Issues
Iliotibial Band Syndrome
The iliotibial band is a ligament that runs from the outside of the pelvic bone down the tibia. If this band becomes too tight, it can rub against the outstide of the femur, which causes pain. Runners are particularly susceptible to this condition.
Loose Body Within the Knee Space
Bursitis is a condition that affects the small fluid sacs that cushion the outside of the knee joints. With bursitis, these sacs become inflamed and irritated, and can reduce the ability of the knee tendons and ligaments to glide smoothly as they should.
PLICA (PLI-KAH) Syndrome
Plica syndrome is a result of a disturbance of the knee or various other pathological knee conditions. Healthy plica synovial membranes are pliable and thin. But, when the membranes become inflamed over a period, elasticity can be lost, and the membranes become thickened and fibrotic.
Diseases and Conditions that Cause Knee Pain
There are many diseases and conditions that can contribute to knee pain. These include:
-
Arthritis
-
Osteoarthritis
-
Rheumatoid arthritis
-
Gout
-
Sciatica
-
Obestiy
-
Previous knee injuries
Am I At Risk for Knee Pain?
If you suffer from a pre-existing condition such as arthritis, your knees can be affected. As well, if you participate in certain sports or activities that are commonly associated with knee pain (i.e. running), you are at risk. Finally, if you are obese, too much pressure can be placed on the knees, leading to pain and inflammation.