18 Surprising Reasons Your Knees Are Bothering You

Knee pain affects people of all ages and can stem from issues within the joint itself or the surrounding soft tissues. Common symptoms include swelling, stiffness, and joint instability, along with popping or crunching sounds during movement. In more severe cases, individuals may struggle to bend or straighten their knee or find it impossible to bear weight on the affected leg. Doctors diagnose knee pain through a physical examination and, if necessary, imaging tests. Fortunately, a variety of treatment options exist, from over-the-counter pain relievers and prescription anti-inflammatories to injectable corticosteroids and physical therapy. However, the best approach to knee pain relief depends on its underlying cause. We’ve expanded our list to cover 18 major causes of knee pain—read on to learn what might be behind your discomfort and how to address it.

1. Dislocated Kneecap

Patients can develop a dislocated kneecap due to a sudden change in direction while their leg is firmly planted. This frequently happens in contact sports, such as basketball. It can also occur after falls or other trauma. The patella is a triangular bone that protects the knee. In most kneecap dislocations, the patella slips toward the outer side of the leg. Patients may notice an obvious knee deformity. They will usually be unable to walk or straighten their leg and knee. The joint could swell too. Doctors will perform x-rays or magnetic resonance imaging scans of the patient's knee when diagnosing a dislocated kneecap. Patients who have a confirmed dislocation will need to have their kneecap manipulated back to its proper location. After this, their knee will be in a cast or another immobilizer for roughly three weeks. After that time, physical therapy will be needed to rebuild strength and function in the joint. Kneecap dislocations typically heal within six weeks.