What Can Cause Knee Pain Without Injury?
Knee pain is a common issue that many people face, and while injuries are often the usual suspects, there are numerous other reasons knee pain can occur without any apparent trauma.
Conditions such as arthritis, bursitis, and even lifestyle factors can lead to discomfort and stiffness in the knee. This type of pain can often extend to other joints, causing both ankle and knee pain without injury.
In this blog, we’ll explore what can cause knee pain without injury, including various medical conditions and underlying factors that can contribute to joint discomfort.
What can cause knee pain without injury?
Knee pain when bending and straightening can have various causes, ranging from minor issues like overuse or muscle strain to more serious conditions like ligament tears or arthritis. Here are some potential reasons why your knee might hurt when you bend it:
Knee tendonitis
Knee tendonitis, often referred to as jumper’s knee, is an inflammation of the tendons around the knee caused by overuse or repetitive strain. This condition commonly affects athletes in sports that involve jumping, running, or quick, sudden stops.
Symptoms include:
- Pain around the kneecap or below it.
- Swelling and tenderness in the affected area.
- Stiffness, particularly after periods of inactivity.
- Discomfort during physical activities, especially jumping or running.
Bursitis
Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursae. Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that provides cushioning and protection to the joints.
Bursitis can occur in several areas in the knee, but it is often seen in the prepatellar bursa (housemaid’s knee) and the infrapatellar bursa (clergyman’s knee).
Symptoms include:
- Localized pain and swelling around the knee.
- Tenderness and warmth in the affected area.
- Limited range of motion.
- Increased pain with movement or pressure
Osteoarthritis (OA)
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a joint condition which is marked by the wear and tear of cartilage that cushions the joints. This condition often develops gradually, affecting older adults or those with a history of joint injuries.
Symptoms include:
- Dull, aching pain in the knee, especially after activity.
- Stiffness in the morning or after sitting for long periods.
- Swelling due to inflammation.
- Reduced range of motion.
Baker’s cyst
It is a fluid-filled sac that develops behind the knee due to increased synovial fluid production, often as a result of an underlying condition like arthritis.
Symptoms include:
- Swelling behind the knee.
- Discomfort or tightness in the knee area.
- Pain during knee movement or when extending the leg.
Rheumatoid arthritis
It is an autoimmune disorder that leads to chronic inflammation in the joints, such as knees. Unlike osteoarthritis, RA can affect individuals at any age and often occurs symmetrically (both knees).
Symptoms include:
- Joint pain and swelling.
- Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes.
- Fatigue and general malaise.
- Reduced range of motion.
Iliotibial band syndrome
Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) occurs when the iliotibial band—a thick band of tissue that runs along the outer thigh—becomes tight or inflamed, causing pain on the outside of the knee.
Symptoms include:
- Pain in the outer knee, especially during running or cycling.
- Swelling in the affected area.
- A clicking sensation when moving the knee.
Infection
Infections in the knee joint, known as septic arthritis, can occur when bacteria or viruses enter the joint space. This condition requires immediate medical attention.
Symptoms include:
- Severe pain and swelling in the knee.
- Fever and chills.
- Redness and warmth around the joint.
- Limited range of motion.
Gout
Gout is a form of arthritis arises from the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, including the knee. This condition can flare up unexpectedly and may lead to severe pain.
Symptoms include:
- Intense, sharp pain in the knee joint, usually appearing suddenly.
- Redness and warmth around the knee.
- Swelling and stiffness, which may worsen at night.
- Pain can be excruciating during a gout flare-up, often limiting mobility.
How can you tell if your knee pain is not serious?
Certain symptoms may indicate a more severe knee condition.
These include intense pain, swelling, open wounds, deformities, joint instability, a popping sound, difficulty bearing weight, inability to fully straighten the leg, or buckling of the knee when walking or standing. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to make an appointment with your doctor immediately.
Your knees are essential for daily movement, and when they aren’t functioning properly, it can significantly affect your quality of life.
It’s best to avoid strenuous activity and limit movement until a doctor assesses your knee to prevent further injury. A knee doctor uses a range of diagnostic tools to determine the root cause of knee pain and guide effective treatment.
What can you do to relieve from knee pain?
- Rest: Resting the knee is essential for reducing inflammation and preventing further irritation, especially if the pain is from overuse or a minor injury.
- Activity modification: To stay active without straining the knees, avoid high-impact activities like running or jumping and switch to low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling, or yoga.
- Ice and heat therapy: Apply ice packs or heating pads for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling and numb the pain.
- Compression: Using an elastic bandage or a knee brace can provide support, help reduce swelling, and prevent excessive movement.
- Pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
- Physiotherapy: A physical therapist can create a tailored exercise program to enhance strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the knee, helping reduce pain.
- Corticosteroid injections: These can temporarily relieve inflammation and pain and are often used in cases of arthritis.
- Surgery: If non-surgical measures fail to provide relief, your doctor may recommend surgery. Common procedures include arthroscopy, partial or total knee replacement, and kneecap stabilization surgery.
Remember, it’s best to consult a knee doctor for a personalized treatment plan, especially if your knee pain persists or worsens. Early management can improve outcomes and help you maintain a pain-free, active lifestyle.
Consult Dr. Hesham Al-Khateeb for knee pain treatment in Dubai
If you’re experiencing unexplained knee pain, consult Dr. Hesham Al-Khateeb for expert diagnosis and personalized treatment.
As the best orthopedic doctor in Dubai, Dr. Hesham provides state-of-the-art knee and hip care, specializing in advanced treatments and sports medicine. For unparalleled care and successful outcomes, Dr. Hesham is the top choice for knee specialists in Dubai.
FAQs
Conditions like arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, and gout can cause knee and ankle pain without a specific injury. Poor alignment, overuse, or underlying issues like autoimmune disorders can also contribute to pain in these areas.
The R.I.C.E. method—rest, ice, compression, and elevation—is effective for relieving knee pain at home. Over-the-counter pain relievers, gentle stretching, and using a knee brace can also help.
Sudden knee pain without injury can result from arthritis flare-ups, gout, bursitis, or tendonitis. Other causes may include joint infections or Baker’s cyst, which can develop behind the knee.
