Most of us have suffered knee pain at some time in our life. This pain can range from mild to severe, depending on a number of factors.

For some, it can be mild and long lasting. This can limit their daily life activities. Other people suffer through severe pain for weeks. The severity as well as length of time depends on the underlying cause of pain.

Lifestyle factors such as exercise and sports can result in acute pain. Furthermore, arthritis and knee injuries can produce sharp pain. Let's explore a few common reasons of knee pain:

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Ligament injuries in Louisville KY

Ligaments in your knee area connect the thigh bone to the bones of your lower leg. Holding your bones together, they make the knee stable.

Sprains and tears are common in these ligaments due to sports. These injuries can occur in one or more of these three regions:

• Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)
• Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL)
• Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL)

An injury in any of these ligaments can cause severe knee pain. This may require surgery.

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Cartilage Tears

Tears in the cartilages of knee can occur as well, resulting in knee pain. Cartilages are semi-hard tissues which are tough, yet flexible. These tissues cover the bone ends.

Knee cartilage consists of two menisci present on either side of joint:

• Medial Meniscus- located on the inner side of knee
• Lateral meniscus- located on the outer side of knee

A 'meniscus tear' is a common phrase, indicating cartilage injury. This is also usually corrected by surgery.

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Arthritis

It is a chronic degenerative condition, resulting in severe pain and even disability. It may require surgery. Extreme stiffness and swelling is experienced around the knee region. Additionally, arthritis makes it difficult to bend your knee.

Following are the most common forms of arthritis:

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Rheumatoid Arthritis

It is an autoimmune disease which results in inflammation of the tissue around the knee region. Chronic inflammation can eventually result in damage and loss of cartilage. However, rheumatoid arthritis only represents about 10% to 15% of all cases.

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Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Trauma, in this case, is a serious knee injury. These injuries include ligament tears and bone fractures. It results in cartilage damage over time, leading to pain, stiffness and swelling.

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Osteoarthritis

It is most common form of arthritis. This constitutes progressive wearing of cartilage present in the knee joint. It is frequently observed in people over 50 years of age. The cause is continuous use as well as wearing down of cartilage.

It causes pain, stiffness, limited movement, swelling tenderness, weakness and deformity. Factors such as age, genetics, weight, history of injuries and previous illness can influence the onset of osteoarthritis.

Arthritis and activity related knee pain is usually managed through pain medications or alternative approaches. For pain management, you can consult Louisville KY chiropractor, Dr. Martin. For appointment at our Louisville Chiropractic, contact us here.