Anterior Medial Knee Pain
Anterior knee pain is one of the most common injuries in the world of orthopedic medicine. It is described as pain in the front of the knee, usually on top of or below the patella. Pain is this area may occur as the result of an acute injury, but it is more often a chronic, lingering condition.
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Causes
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Anterior knee pain may develop after a twisting or hyperextension of the knee, from direct trauma, or as a chronic condition which develops gradually over time. Chronic anterior knee pain has been linked to muscle weakness, tight muscles or a combination of both. Any of these factors can lead to patellar instability or maltracking, which results in pain.
Evaluation
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Sufferers of anterior knee pain are advised to consult with a physician who will perform orthopedic tests, and if necessary will order an X-ray or MRI to rule out serious damage, such as torn cartilage or ligaments.
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Treatment
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If cartilage or ligament damage is suspected or confirmed through diagnostic tests, surgery may be needed to repair the damaged structures. In other cases, anterior knee pain is addressed through rehabilitation. Anterior knee pain sufferers generally benefit from quadricep and gluteal strengthening and stretching the thigh, calf and hip muscles. This helps stabilize the patella and allows for proper patellar tracking.
Considerations
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Anterior knee pain sufferers who continue with normal activity on a painful knee risk causing further, more serious damage to the joint. Be sure to consult a physician in the case of any acute injury, or if pain persists or worsens.
Prevention
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Before being physically active, be sure to do a proper warm up. Also, improve overall strength and flexibility. When starting a new exercise program, start gradually, and always use proper form when lifting weights or performing other exercises.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Luis Markovic
