According to physical therapist and podiatrist Angie Brown, there are two main causes of knee pain. These are acute trauma and osteoarthritis.
When shear forces occur between the femur and tibia, the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) can tear. ACL injuries often occur when athletes land badly on their knees or spin quickly on their planted foot. PCL injuries are less common. They are often associated with car accidents or falls down stairs.
Knee pain can also be the result of injury or severe stress to the muscles and tendons surrounding the knee. Both can lead to osteoarthritis. This disease is progressive and can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness.
One of the most important ways to prevent knee pain is physical activity. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that adults get at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week. These recommendations do not change for those who already have osteoarthritis.
Experts also recommend that all adults do strength training two or more times a week. Adults with knee osteoarthritis may especially benefit from quadriceps strengthening exercises called straight leg raises.
Traditionally, knee pain is treated with painkillers, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. Surgery is also possible.
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Source: Ferra
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