Knee Pain – Symptoms

By Jon Stiffler PTA

Knee Pain Symptoms

Knee pain symptoms can be very confusing when it is your knee that hurts.  The knee joint is basically a structure that functions as a hinge joint.  The knee cap or patella functions as a fulcrum to allow the muscles to move the knee. However, when this hinge is not working right you will get symptoms. These symptoms can have varying effect depending on what the problem is.

The most common symptom you will experience is pain.  Knee pain is usually specific to the structure involved such as patella femoral inflammation would cause pain under the knee cap or arthritic pain which would be more along the joint line.

Knee Pain With Instability

Next symptom is instability. When your knee gives way this can be a telltale sign for a ligament tear. One common cause of instability is an ACL tear. This ACL tear allows a loose connection between the upper leg and the lower leg.

Knee Pain With Locking

Image of the Knee Joint

Another common symptom is locking. Usually when this occurs the knee will actually get stuck. The main cause of this problem is usually a meniscal tear. The meniscus is on the inside and outside of the knee joint and between the upper and lower leg bone. The piece that is torn can actually get stuck between the two bones of the knee and cause a block to further motion.

Knee Pain Arthritis

Next, if your whole joint hurts than this is usually a sign of arthritis. Activities of standing, walking and climbing steps become very difficult.  There are two main types of arthritis, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Knee Pain With Swelling

The final symptom is very distinct. Swelling, which is usually a strong indicator of a more active inflammation, tends to occur more frequently in the initial stages of injury. Swelling has a very noted effect on joint function as it blocks the space available for the joint to move normally.

JOI  Physical Therapy 

JOI Rehab can customize a rehab program specifically for your knee pain symptoms and diagnosis.  JOI clinicians work closely with your physician to help you get back on the road to recovery.

If you are interested in scheduling an appointment at JOI Rehab for physical therapy, call (904) 858-7045

Knee Pain

Symptoms
Causes and Risk Factors
Test
Diagnosis
Treatment Plans 

If you would like to learn more about knee pain or knee symptoms, go to https://www.joionline.net/trending/content/5-knee-symptoms-you-should-not-ignore or if you want to schedule an appointment with a JOI Knee Pain Orthopedic Physician.  JOI-2000 or 904-564-2000.