Why Do My Knees Hurt? Possible Causes of Chronic Knee Pain

Chronic knee pain can be a frustrating and debilitating condition for those who experience it. It can affect a person's ability to perform everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or even sitting for long periods of time. While acute knee pain is usually caused by a specific injury or traumatic event, chronic knee pain can be more complex and may have multiple underlying causes. Here are some ways in which a person may develop chronic knee pain:

1. Osteoarthritis: This is a common cause of chronic knee pain, particularly in older adults. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage that cushions the bones in the knee joint wears away, causing the bones to rub together and create pain. Symptoms of osteoarthritis include stiffness, swelling, and pain that is often worse after activity or when the weather is cold or damp.
2. Rheumatoid arthritis: This is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints, including the knees. Rheumatoid arthritis can lead to chronic knee pain and disability if left untreated. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include stiffness, swelling, and warmth around the joint.
3. Overuse injuries: Repetitive activities, such as running or jumping, can put a lot of strain on the knee joint and lead to chronic pain. This is especially true for people who engage in these activities without proper warm-up and stretching, or who do not use proper form. Overuse injuries can also occur in people who have occupations that require them to stand or walk for long periods of time, such as factory workers or retail employees.
4. Obesity: Being overweight or obese puts extra pressure on the knees, which can lead to chronic pain over time. This is due to the increased weight and stress placed on the knee joint with each step.
5. Poor posture: Poor posture, such as standing or sitting with the knees bent for long periods of time, can cause chronic knee pain. This is because the unnatural position places additional strain on the joint, leading to inflammation and pain over time.
6. Trauma: Knee injuries, such as torn ligaments or fractures, can lead to chronic pain if they are not properly treated or if they result in scar tissue formation. These injuries can occur through sports or other physical activities, or they may be the result of a car accident or other traumatic event.

To prevent or reduce the risk of developing chronic knee pain, it is important to maintain a healthy weight, engage in regular physical activity, and use proper form when performing activities that put strain on the knees. Stretching before and after exercise can help to prevent overuse injuries, and wearing proper footwear can help to reduce the strain on the knees. If you are experiencing chronic knee pain, it is important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. This may include medications, physical therapy, or in some cases, surgery. By taking the necessary steps to address chronic knee pain, you can improve your quality of life and maintain an active lifestyle.

The information provided in this article is based on a review of scientific literature and medical sources, including the following:

1. "Osteoarthritis of the Knee" by the Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoarthritis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351925
2. "Rheumatoid Arthritis" by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/rheumatoid-arthritis
3. "Overuse Injuries" by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: https://www.aaos.org/conditions/overuse-injuries
4. "The Link Between Obesity and Knee Pain" by the Arthritis Foundation: https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/healthy-living/weight/obesity/the-link-between-obesity-and-knee-pain
5. "Knee Injuries and Disorders" by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/knee-injuries-and-disorders
6. "Treatment Options for Chronic Knee Pain" by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: https://www.aaos.org/conditions/treatment-options-for-chronic-knee-pain