Why Are My Knees Aching?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Knee pain may be the result of an injury, such as a ruptured ligament or torn cartilage . Medical conditions — including arthritis, gout and infections — also can cause knee pain. Many types of minor knee pain respond well to self-care measures. Physical therapy and knee braces also can help relieve pain.

What is the cause of aching knees?

The most common causes of knee pain are related to aging, injury or repeated stress on the knee . Common knee problems include sprained or strained ligaments, cartilage tears, tendonitis and arthritis.

Is it normal to have pain in both knees?

There are many different things that can cause bilateral knee pain, which is when both of your knees hurt at the same time. While some of these conditions are quite common and can be easily managed, others are rarer and may require significant medical intervention .

What does a dull ache in the knee mean?

Aching knees can be caused by damage to knee cartilage, ligaments, tendons, or other muscle tissues . The most common cause of achy knee pain include a meniscal injury, patellofemoral pain syndrome, or runner’s knee. Read on for more information on causes and treatment options.

At what age do knee problems start?

The most common cause of knee pain can hit you in your 30s as easily as it can in your 60s and 70s. Orthopaedic surgeon Robert Nickodem Jr., MD says osteoarthritis, or “wear-and-tear arthritis,” is the most common cause of knee pain – and the most common form of arthritis.

Do your knees hurt with Covid?

Recent research published in The Lancet in October 2020 finds that nearly 15 percent of COVID-19 patients report experiencing joint pain .

When should I be concerned about knee pain?

Make an appointment with your doctor if your knee pain was caused by a particularly forceful impact or if it’s accompanied by: Significant swelling . Redness . Tenderness and warmth around the joint .

What does arthritis in knee feel like?

There are many signs and symptoms of arthritis of the knee: Creaking, clicking, grinding or snapping noises (crepitus). Difficulty walking. Joint pain that changes (gets better or worse) depending on the weather .

Why do my knees ache in bed at night?

Some of the most common sources for nighttime knee pain include runner’s knee, osteoarthritis, bursitis, or injuries . Some of these conditions, like runner’s knee, may resolve after you rest your knee. Others, like osteoarthritis, are chronic in nature.

At what age does arthritis usually start?

It most commonly starts among people between the ages of 40 and 60 . It’s more common in women than men. There are drugs that can slow down an over-active immune system and therefore reduce the pain and swelling in joints.

What can cause both knee pain without injury?

  • Bursitis: Tiny sacs of fluid cushion the bones in the knee joint. ...
  • Tendinitis: Tendons are the tissue that binds muscle to bones, and tendinitis is common in the knee. ...
  • Baker’s cyst: ...
  • Osteoarthritis: ...
  • Rheumatoid arthritis:

Is walking good for sore knees?

Walking is a fantastic option for many patients with knee arthritis because it is a low-impact activity that does not put undue stress on the joints. Furthermore, walking can increase the knee’s range of motion and keep it from becoming overly stiff.

Can vitamin D deficiency cause knees?

A vitamin D deficiency can affect both physical and mental health, but many people have low levels of vitamin D without realizing. The physical symptoms of a deficiency may include muscle pain in the joints, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pain, which often occurs in the knees, legs, and hips.

How can I prevent knee pain as I age?

  1. Eat an anti-inflammatory diet. Inflammation can damage your joints, and your daily diet plays a significant role in the amount of inflammation present in your body. ...
  2. Try supplements. ...
  3. Maintain a healthy weight. ...
  4. Use targeted exercises to build muscle. ...
  5. Wear proper shoes.

What foods strengthen knees?

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids / Fish Oils. Cold-water fish are a terrific source of Omega-3s fatty acids, which are essential nutrients for human health. ...
  • Nuts and Seeds. ...
  • Brassica Vegetables. ...
  • Colorful Fruits. ...
  • Olive Oil. ...
  • Lentils and Beans. ...
  • Garlic and Root Vegetables. ...
  • Whole Grains.

Does COVID cause achy legs?

People using the app have reported feeling muscle aches and pains, particularly in their shoulders or legs . COVID-related muscle pains can range from being mild to quite debilitating, especially when they occur alongside fatigue.

Are joint aches a symptom of COVID?

The typical symptoms of COVID-19 range from those resembling the flu or a bad cold to ones that are much more severe. However, there are less frequent symptoms you probably wouldn’t expect that follow some people both during the illness and long after recovery. One of those is muscle and joint pain from COVID-19.

Can COVID start with body aches?

Fever or chills. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Muscle or body aches .

How long should knee pain last before seeing a doctor?

Often swelling peaks around 24 to 48 hours after an injury. If swelling is still getting worse after 48 hours, you should seek medical attention. If the knee looks deformed or misaligned, don’t delay in seeking treatment.

Will knee pain go away?

Knee pain will usually go away without further medical treatment , using only a few self-help measures. If you need help you might first see a physiotherapist or your GP.

Where is arthritis pain in the knee?

The pain can be felt all around your knee, or just in a certain place such as the front and sides . It might feel worse after moving your knee in a particular way, such as going up or down stairs. Sometimes, people have pain that wakes them up in the night.

What are the 4 stages of osteoarthritis?

  • Stage 1 – Minor. Minor wear-and-tear in the joints. Little to no pain in the affected area.
  • Stage 2 – Mild. More noticeable bone spurs. ...
  • Stage 3 – Moderate. Cartilage in the affected area begins to erode. ...
  • Stage 4 – Severe. The patient is in a lot of pain.

How do I know if I have knee arthritis?

A knee joint affected by arthritis may be painful and inflamed. Generally, the pain develops gradually over time, although sudden onset is also possible. There are other symptoms, as well: The joint may become stiff and swollen, making it difficult to bend and straighten the knee .

What does gout in the knee feel like?

Most people with gout in the knee experience intense pain during a gout attack. Swelling may also be noticeable during an active flare, as well as redness and warmth. The pain may develop in the night and hurt continuously for up to two weeks before the flare subsides, with the most intense pain in the first 24 hours.

James Park
Author
James Park
Dr. James Park is a medical doctor and health expert with a focus on disease prevention and wellness. He has written several publications on nutrition and fitness, and has been featured in various health magazines. Dr. Park's evidence-based approach to health will help you make informed decisions about your well-being.