The knee is the largest hinge joint in the body. With its size and the immense pressure placed on the joint, it is no wonder this is one of the most commonly injured areas of the body. Unfortunately, there are many types of injuries and conditions that can affect the knee and lead to serious pain. Being aware of these conditions will help individuals to seek the right mode of treating knee pain effectively.
Arthritis is one of the most common knee conditions leading to pain. As individuals age, their cartilage is often lessened in the knee joint area. A lack of lubricating fluid and proper cushioning can lead the bones to rub against one another, causing mild to severe pain. Arthritis can be managed with medications and knee support. Sometimes, the condition progresses so badly surgery is required.
Ligament injuries are one of the most common types of knee injuries. There are four ligaments in the knee and these can become overly stretched or even torn. Depending on the level of damage, the individual may be able to recover with rest and treatment or may end up needing surgical intervention. After such an injury, a protective knee brace is crucial for recovery.
Baker's Cysts occur on the back of the knee, forming a large swollen area. These are not always painful, but they can be. Sometimes, this type of cyst is a sign of an underlying knee problem, such as a meniscus tear. If the swelling causes pain and stiffness, wearing a brace can help during the recovery process.
Bursitis is also quite common in the knee joint. When the bursa becomes inflamed, this can cause a person to experience a great deal of pain and stiffness. Rapid swelling is the hallmark sign of this type of knee condition.
Dislocation of the kneecap is not as common as some other types of knee conditions, but it can happen, especially in contact sports or when a fall occurs. Sometimes, the knee cap can be righted manually. In severe cases, surgery may be required to restore proper position.
Five Common Knee Conditions and Their Treatments
Treating a knee condition can sometimes be arduous for both patients and doctors. Once the knee joint has become damaged in any way, it will likely be more prone to being injured in the future. The following offers insight into some of the common types of knee conditions and how they can be treated with knee sleeves and braces.Arthritis is one of the most common knee conditions leading to pain. As individuals age, their cartilage is often lessened in the knee joint area. A lack of lubricating fluid and proper cushioning can lead the bones to rub against one another, causing mild to severe pain. Arthritis can be managed with medications and knee support. Sometimes, the condition progresses so badly surgery is required.
Ligament injuries are one of the most common types of knee injuries. There are four ligaments in the knee and these can become overly stretched or even torn. Depending on the level of damage, the individual may be able to recover with rest and treatment or may end up needing surgical intervention. After such an injury, a protective knee brace is crucial for recovery.
Baker's Cysts occur on the back of the knee, forming a large swollen area. These are not always painful, but they can be. Sometimes, this type of cyst is a sign of an underlying knee problem, such as a meniscus tear. If the swelling causes pain and stiffness, wearing a brace can help during the recovery process.
Bursitis is also quite common in the knee joint. When the bursa becomes inflamed, this can cause a person to experience a great deal of pain and stiffness. Rapid swelling is the hallmark sign of this type of knee condition.
Dislocation of the kneecap is not as common as some other types of knee conditions, but it can happen, especially in contact sports or when a fall occurs. Sometimes, the knee cap can be righted manually. In severe cases, surgery may be required to restore proper position.
