Understanding Knee Conditions
Knee pain may follow an injury, develop with repetitive activity, or progress as cartilage changes over time. Evaluation focuses on the cause of symptoms and the activities you want to return to.
Common Knee Conditions
Knee symptoms can arise from ligaments, menisci, cartilage, the kneecap, or arthritis. An examination helps determine which structure is involved.
ACL & Other Ligament Injuries
The ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL help stabilize the knee. A sprain or tear may cause swelling, pain, and instability, especially during cutting or pivoting activity.
Meniscus Tears
The menisci are cartilage structures that cushion and stabilize the knee. A tear may cause joint-line pain, swelling, catching, locking, or difficulty fully bending and straightening the knee.
Patellar Instability
The kneecap may shift or dislocate after an injury or because of underlying alignment. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, apprehension, or repeated episodes of instability.
Cartilage Injuries
Damage to the smooth articular cartilage can occur with trauma or develop over time. Symptoms may include swelling, catching, and pain during weight-bearing activity.
Knee Arthritis
Progressive cartilage loss can lead to pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced function. Treatment is guided by symptom severity, imaging, health, and activity goals.
Knee Replacement
When advanced arthritis causes substantial pain and loss of function despite nonsurgical care, partial or total knee replacement may be considered.
Evaluation
Your visit may include a review of how symptoms began, an examination of motion, alignment, strength, and stability, and X-rays. MRI or other imaging may be recommended when more detail is needed.
Treatment Options
Treatment may include activity modification, physical therapy, bracing, medication, or an injection when appropriate. Arthroscopy, meniscus treatment, ligament reconstruction, cartilage procedures, or joint replacement may be discussed when indicated.
Additional Patient Education
These independent resources from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons provide further general information.
This information is for general educational purposes and does not replace an evaluation or individualized medical advice.