Why Does My Knee Hurt When I Bend It?
The importance of knees is self-evident as they are crucial joints in the human body. They are frequently used in daily activities and are prone to problems due to various factors. Pain during knee bending may be caused by meniscal tears, popliteal cysts, osteoarthritis, and patellofemoral arthritis. Here are some causes and precautions for knee pain.
1. Meniscal Tears: When there is damage or tearing in the posterior horn of the meniscus, it can cause pain in the knee during bending or flexion. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential through MRI scans.
2. Popliteal Cysts: The presence of popliteal cysts in the knee joint can also lead to pain during bending. Cystic masses can be detected in the popliteal region, and early diagnosis can be made through ultrasound and MRI scans.
3. Osteoarthritis: Severe osteoarthritis can affect the soft tissues surrounding the knee, causing pain during bending. Early diagnosis can be made through X-ray and CT scans of the knee joint.
4. Patellofemoral Arthritis: Severe patellofemoral arthritis can cause pain in the front of the knee during bending. Early diagnosis can be made through X-ray scans, and early treatment includes nourishing the cartilage and relieving inflammation and pain.
1. Avoid Excessive Rest: Too much rest can weaken muscle function and exacerbate joint pain. It is important to develop an exercise plan that is safe for the knee joint and stick to it. Consult a doctor or physical therapist if you are uncertain about which exercises are safe and how to control the intensity.
2. Perform Aerobic Exercises: Aerobic exercises can strengthen the muscles that support the knee joint and improve joint flexibility. Weighted training and stretching exercises also have similar benefits. Walking, swimming, aquatic aerobics, stationary cycling, and elliptical machines are good choices. Tai Chi can also help relieve joint stiffness and promote balance.
3. Prevent Falls: Knee pain or instability can increase the risk of falls, which can further damage the knee joint. Ensure adequate lighting in the house and use handrails on stairs. Use sturdy ladders or stools when retrieving items from high shelves to prevent falls.
4. Apply RICE Principles: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) can help relieve some types of knee pain caused by minor injuries or arthritis flare-ups. Apply ice to the knee to reduce swelling, use a compression bandage, and elevate the knee.
5. Monitor Weight: If you are overweight, losing weight can reduce pressure on the knee joint. Even a small amount of weight loss can be beneficial. It is not necessary to reach your "ideal" weight, but any reduction in weight can help.
