Knee pain, a commonly encountered orthopedic problem, can arise due to a variety of causes. One of the most prevalent factors is osteoarthritis, which occurs when the protective cartilage covering the ends of bones gradually wears away, causing bone-on-bone friction. Another primary cause of knee pain is strain or injury to ligaments, such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear or medial collateral ligament (MCL) sprain. These injuries often result from sudden twists or direct impacts on the knee joint during sports activities or accidents. Furthermore, conditions like tendinitis (inflammation of tendons), bursitis (inflammation of fluid-filled sacs), and patellofemoral pain syndrome (tracking issues between kneecap and thighbone) can also lead to knee discomfort. Additionally, factors like obesity, overuse injuries from repetitive motions, muscle imbalances in legs, and misalignment issues contribute significantly to knee pain. Ultimately, understanding the multifactorial nature of knee pain aids in diagnosing and treating patients effectively while ensuring optimal outcomes in both conservative management and surgical interventions.
