Why does my knee hurt?

Depending on the location of your knee pain, your health care provider can determine which anatomical structures are involved. Most cases of knee pain are related to:

• Tendons around the knee, like your iliotibial (IT) band and patellar tendon
• Muscles around the knee, like your quadriceps and hamstrings
• Ligaments in and around your knee
• Cartilage in your knee joint and behind your knee cap
• Menisci
• Bursa

The cause of your pain can also help your provider determine your diagnosis.

What causes knee pain?

Your knees involve multiple moving parts that must work together to allow your knee to bend, straighten, and even rotate when you sit, stand, and walk. Most cases of knee pain are related to wear-and-tear or overuse. Swelling and bruising may also accompany knee pain. Other things that can lead to knee pain are:

• Kneeling on hard surfaces
• Sitting with your knees bent for long periods
• Twisting and pivoting movements
• Direct trauma

When you experience knee pain, the following conditions may be the cause:

• Tendonitis
• Muscle strains
• Ligament sprains
• Meniscus tears
• Bursitis
• Arthritis

If your knee pain doesn't begin to improve within 1-2 weeks or it's getting worse, schedule an exam at Elite Integrative Medical to determine the cause and get treatment.