Top Causes of Knee Pain and When to See an Orthopedic Specialist
Knee pain is one of the most common complaints across all age groups. Whether it’s a sudden injury, an underlying medical condition, or wear and tear over time, knee problems can seriously affect your mobility and quality of life. Understanding the common causes is the first step towards proper treatment and lasting relief. 1. Osteoarthritis The most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease where the cartilage in the knee gradually wears away. This leads to pain, stiffness, and swelling. It usually affects middle-aged and older adults. 2. Injuries Knee injuries, especially to ligaments (like ACL or MCL tears), tendons, or meniscus (cartilage), are frequent among athletes and active individuals. These injuries may require surgical intervention and physiotherapy. 3. Overuse and Repetitive Strain Conditions such as patellar tendinitis, bursitis, and IT band syndrome often result from repetitive activities like running, jumping, or p...