The knee is one of the largest and most complicated joints of the body. It is used for everything from standing up, sitting, to walking, running, etc. It’s a weight-bearing joint that straightens, bends, twists and rotates. All this motion increases your risk of acute or overuse knee injuries.
Acute knee injuries (including torn ligaments and torn cartilage) are often caused by twisting the knee or falling. Sports that involve running and jumping and sudden stopping and turning increase the risk of an acute knee injury.
Overuse knee injuries (including muscle strain, tendinopathies and bursitis) may develop gradually over days or weeks. Pain is often mild and intermittent in the beginning and worsens over time. When muscles and tendons are stressed even slightly beyond their capabilities, microscopic tears occur. Overuse injuries are best treated early to prevent chronic problems.
Knee osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of knee pain. The risk increases with age. Osteoarthritis is a form of arthritis involving degeneration of the cartilage. Appropriate exercise is vital to maintain strength and flexibility of muscles supporting the knee, which reduces the stress on the knee joint.