Severe knee pain is an unfortunate part of a lot of people’s lives and can hamper everyday obligations. Unfortunately, knee pain can happen to almost anyone, no matter their age, gender, or lifestyle. To protect yourself from the dangers of escalating knee injuries and conditions, it’s important to know the common causes. Knowing the exact reason for knee pain can lead to a more accurate diagnosis and increase the chances of a successful treatment. If you are experiencing severe knee pain and want to seek out treatment, make an appointment with an orthopedic specialist spine care in Jacksonville, FL.Here is a list of the most common causes of knee pain.

Ligament Trauma

Any kind of ligament trauma in the knee is usually a result of an injury. The knee is one of the most likely joints to be injured, especially if you’re an athlete. There are three main ligaments in the knee that can be torn or sprained. These include the anterior cruciate ligament, the medial collateral ligament, and the posterior cruciate ligament. Ligaments are usually torn when the knee is twisted, changes direction suddenly, is impacted directly, or if the ligaments are overworked.

Cartilage Tears

Knee cartilage tears are another common knee injury caused by twisting and rotating the knee. Damage to the menisci, the cartilage between the shin and thighbone, is a common cartilage damage that can be very painful and may require surgery.

Arthritis

Arthritis is a different kind of knee damage since it is a chronic condition. There are a few types of arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, post-traumatic arthritis, and osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and loss of cartilage. Post-traumatic arthritis is result of serious injury that damages the cartilage. Osteoarthritis is a gradual decrease of the cartilage and is mostly common in older adults.

Bursitis

Bursitis is also caused by injury to the knee but occurs when the injury results in inflammation of the bursae, the sacs of fluid that cushion the knee. This damage usually occurs after spending a lot of time on your knees or from a direct blow to the knee. When the bursae are damaged, tendons and ligaments aren’t able to glide smoothly over the joint, which causes pain.

Tendinitis

Tendons are tissue that attach muscles to bones, and if irritated or inflamed, they can cause severe knee pain. This is called tendinitis, and usually certain athletes like runners, skiers, and cyclists are the most likely to get tendinitis in the knee.

Knee pain can be difficult to live with, and if gone untreated can only get worse and more inhibiting. If you have severe knee pain, treatment may include surgery or medication. For the best advice on how to treat your knee pain, contact an orthopedic specialist in Jacksonville, FL.