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Knee Pain
Knee pain can be caused by a sudden injury, an overuse injury, or by an underlying condition, such as arthritis. Treatment will vary depending on the cause. Symptoms of knee injury can include pain, swelling, and stiffness.
A new study shows that just looking at a picture of a loved one can help reduce pain.
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Topic Overview
Most people have had a minor knee problem at one time or another. Most of the time our body movements do not cause problems, but it's not surprising that symptoms develop from everyday wear and tear, overuse, or injury. Knee problems and injuries most often occur during sports or recreational activities, work-related tasks, or home projects.
The knee is the largest joint in the body. The upper and lower bones of
the knee are separated by two discs (menisci). The
upper leg bone (femur) and the lower leg bones (tibia and fibula) are connected
by
ligaments,
tendons, and muscles. The surface of the bones inside
the knee joint is covered by
articular cartilage, which absorbs shock and provides
a smooth, gliding surface for joint movement. See an illustration of the
structures of the knee
.
Using functional tests, such as timed walking or rising from a chair, may help you decide when to have knee-replacement surgery.
