Common causes of knee pain
Knee pain is common and can affect people of all ages. The most common causes of knee pain are injury, overuse and wear and tear.
It can sometimes be managed with changes to your lifestyle but some may need professional treatment.
The most common causes of knee pain are:
- Anterior cruciate ligament injury
The ACL ligament is positioned on the side of the knee and can be damaged from sharp twisting or turning of the knee, predominantly from playing sports such as football or netball. You may experience a popping sound, your knee may feel unstable and you may have swelling and pain.
- Meniscus tear
Similar to an ACL tear, a Meniscus tear can often happen when playing sports that involve twisting. The meniscus wears with age and is more likely to tear the older you are. The tendon may repair on its own with rest and support, however a particularly large tear may require surgery.
- Inflamed joint or knee bursitis
Knee bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa which is a small fluid filled sac which it near the knee joint. The purpose of the bursa is to reduce friction.
- Sports injury
Sports injuries are commonly caused by a sprain, strain or tendonitis. Runner’s knee is a condition caused from overuse of the joint which causes discomfort and a grating sensation in the knee
- Baker’s cyst
A Baker’s cyst is a fluid filled swelling on the back of the knee, which become inflamed and causes pain and clicking of the joint.
- Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear on your joints over time. This is the most common type of arthritis in the UK and one of the most common causes of knee pain.
What treatments are available?
Treatment will depend on your specific situation such as the cause and severity of your symptoms. For example, if you have mild osteoarthritis you may benefit from lifestyle changes, but if the condition is advanced then surgery such as a knee replacement may benefit you more.
Learn more about the most common injuries to the knee here.
How do I book a consultation?
You can book either a face to face or virtual consultation with Mr Makrides by contacting his secretary. You can find her details here.
Appointments are available via private medical insurance or paying for yourself. Click here for the most up to date self funding fees, and here for private medical insurance information.