Top 7 Causes of Severe Knee Pain

Knee pain is one of the most common problems faced by people of all ages. Various factors can cause knee pain, and it can affect the quality of life significantly. Here are the top 7 causes of severe knee pain – knowing the possible causes of knee pain is the first step to determining the best treatment option.

1. Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage in the knee joint wears down over time. This can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the knee. Osteoarthritis is more common in older adults, but it can also affect younger people who have had knee injuries or surgeries in the past.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes joint inflammation, including the knees. This can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee and other joints in the body. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in women.
3. ACL Injury: ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injury is a common knee injury that occurs when the ligament that connects the thigh bone to the shin bone is torn or damaged. This can cause severe knee pain, swelling, and instability. ACL injuries are common in athletes who play sports that involve sudden stops and turns, such as soccer, football and basketball.
4. Meniscus Tear: The meniscus is a piece of cartilage in the knee joint that helps cushion the joint and absorb shock. A meniscus tear can occur when the knee is twisted or bent too far, causing the cartilage to tear. This can cause pain, swelling, stiffness in the knee and a popping sensation.
5. Bursitis: Bursitis is a condition that occurs when the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs in the knee joint, become inflamed. This can cause pain, swelling, stiffness in the knee, and difficulty moving the joint. Bursitis can be caused by overuse, injury, or infection.
6. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: Patellofemoral pain syndrome is a condition that occurs when the kneecap (patella) rubs against the thigh bone (femur), causing pain and discomfort. This can be caused by overuse, injury, or knee joint misalignment. Patellofemoral pain syndrome is more common in women and people who participate in activities that involve extensive running and jumping.
7. Gout: Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when uric acid crystals build up in the joints, including the knee joint. This can cause severe pain, swelling, and redness in the knee and a feeling of warmth in the joint. Gout is more common in men and can be triggered by certain foods and drinks, such as red meat and alcohol.

Various factors, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, ACL injury, meniscus tear, bursitis, patellofemoral pain syndrome, and gout, can cause severe knee pain. If you are experiencing severe knee pain, it is essential to see a doctor that specializes in knee joint disorders to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Contact our team at Robotic Hip and Knee Replacement LA to schedule a knee exam and evaluation at our medical center in Los Angeles, CA.