Top 5 Causes of Gradual Onset Knee Pain

Knee pain which comes on gradually for no apparent reason is probably the most frustrating type of knee pain. Not only is it frustrating not to know what has caused your pain, but this type of knee pain can also be more difficult to treat effectively. This is usually due to a combination of causative factors which must all be corrected to deal with the problem effectively.

Here is our list of the most common causes of gradual onset knee pain:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition which affects the cartilage lining the ends of bones within a joint. It is sometimes also referred to as 'wear and tear'. It is most common in those over the age of 50 and especially in people with a history of previous knee injuries. It can occur in any joint, but is most common in weight bearing joints such as the knee and hip.

Patellofemoral pain syndrome

Also known as anterior knee pain or patella mal-tracking. This is where the knee cap moves excessively towards the outside of the knee, rather than running in its groove. This can cause damage to the cartilage lining the underside of the kneecap. Symptoms include vague pain at the front of the knee which is worst when going down hill or stairs and after exercise.

Osgood schlatters

Osgood schlatters disease occurs in adolescent sports players. It causes pain below the knee and a lump to develop at the attachment of the patella tendon into the shin bone. It is most common in those going through a growth spurt whilst also playing lots of sport. Treatment involves rest or at least modification of activity, as well as ice, stretching and massage.

Jumper's knee

More accurately known as patella tendonitis. This is a degenerative condition affecting the tendon which connects the kneecap to the shin bone. It is aggravated by repetitive jumping or bounding and pain gradually builds up. It may initially only cause pain during activity but may become painful even at rest.

IT band syndrome

Also known as runner's knee. This is an inflammatory condition causing pain and tenderness at the outside of the knee, where the IT band moves back and forth over the lateral condyle of the Femur. This is common in runners and cyclists where the knee is repeatedly bent and straightened.

Please visit our knee pain page on sportsinjuryclinic.net for more injuries which could be causing your knee pain!