Your knees are the largest joints in your body, so it’s no wonder that they are susceptible to a variety of problems. From osteoarthritis to ligament tears, there are many different ways that your knees can be injured or develop problems.
Here are some signs that you may have knee problems:
1. You Have Pain When You Walk or Stand
If you have pain in your knee when you walk or stand, it may be a sign of arthritis or another condition. Osteoarthritis is a common cause of knee pain, and it can occur when the cartilage in your joints breaks down. This can lead to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected joint.
Other conditions that can cause knee pain include gout, tendinitis, bursitis, and meniscus tears. You may need to see a doctor for treatment if you have any of these conditions.
2. Your Knee Feels Stiff or Tight
If your knee feels stiff or tight, it may be a sign of arthritis or another condition. Arthritis can cause the cartilage in your joints to break down, which can lead to stiffness and pain. Other conditions that can cause stiffness and pain include gout, tendinitis, bursitis, and meniscus tears. If you have any of these conditions, you may need to see a doctor for treatment.
3. Your Knee Swells After Exercise
If your knee swells after exercise, it may be a sign of arthritis or another condition. Arthritis can cause the cartilage in your joints to break down, which can lead to swelling and pain. Other conditions that can cause swelling and pain include gout, tendinitis, bursitis, and meniscus tears. If you have any of these conditions, you may need to see a doctor for treatment.
4. You Hear Grinding Sounds When You Move Your Knee
If you hear grinding sounds when you move your knee, it may be a sign of arthritis or another condition. Arthritis can cause the cartilage in your joints to break down, which can lead to pain and inflammation. Other conditions that can cause grinding sounds include gout, tendinitis, bursitis, and meniscus tears. If you have any of these conditions, you may need to see a doctor for treatment.
5. You Knee Feels Unstable
If your knee feels unstable, it may be a sign of an underlying knee problem. Knee instability can be caused by poor balance, misalignment in the leg muscles and joints, overuse injuries like tendonitis, or issues with the ligaments that keep the joint stable. These problems can lead to pain and swelling, loss of range of motion, poor coordination when walking or running, and even poor taste and smell caused by nerve damage. It is important to consult a healthcare provider if you are experiencing knee instability in order to find relief from any underlying injury or condition.
6. You Knee Feels Numb
If you experience any weakness or numbness in your leg below the knee, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible to discuss the underlying cause. This sensation can signal a knee problem that may be the result of poor circulation, muscle strain, or joint injury. Too much stress on a particular area can also contribute to discomfort. Your doctor will be able to rule out any serious conditions by performing an initial evaluation and determining the best course of action for treatment. It is essential to seek medical advice if you feel uneasy after experiencing weakness or numbness in order to ensure proper care and ongoing support in managing any potential knee issues.
Let Us Get Your Life Back In Motion
Orthopedic injuries to your bones, muscles, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, or joints can put you on the sideline of your life. Sprains, strains, or even fractures don’t only happen to athletes. An ordinary simple slip or fall can result in the same kind of injury you might get playing a sport.
Regardless of how you’re injured, LifeMotion therapists are trained to treat musculoskeletal sprains, strains, fractures, dislocations—or even post-surgical recovery. LifeMotion orthopedic physical therapists are extensively trained, bringing years of experience to every case. Our state-of-the-art therapeutic resources enable us to help you go well beyond getting in motion.
