Knee Discomfort: Causes, Concerns, and Care Tips

Knee problems

Hello Doctor: I have three questions.

1.
My left knee has been uncomfortable for two days, but it’s not painful to the point where I can describe the sensation.
There is a spot on the outer upper side of my left knee that hurts when pressed, but the appearance of my knee is normal without redness, swelling, or heat.
I am not an active person, but I don’t avoid walking altogether.
On February 6, I hurriedly walked for about 20 minutes while dragging my luggage to catch a train, and on the morning of February 7, my left knee started feeling uncomfortable.
Walking, squatting, and going up and down stairs are okay, but there is slight discomfort, which is more noticeable when going downstairs.
Additionally, I have noticed a sound from my left knee when I squat (I discovered this issue in high school).
I’m unsure what is happening with my left knee.
2.
While researching online, I found that bone cancer is common in adolescents (I am 20 years old), and one of the symptoms is unexplained lower back pain.
I recalled that on the night of January 31, while lying in bed, I felt discomfort in my entire lower back, but it didn’t feel like pain; it was more like a heavy pressure.
The next morning, I still felt uncomfortable until it gradually improved by the evening.
For the following days, I only felt slight discomfort (more noticeable when lying down).
I experienced something similar in my sophomore year of high school, but I didn’t see a doctor and it eventually resolved on its own, so I didn’t pay much attention this time either.
However, after researching yesterday, I became very worried about a possible connection.
I hope I’m just overthinking it.
3.
I found that training the quadriceps can help maintain knee health.
Should I wait until my knee feels completely better before starting exercises, or can I begin training with just slight discomfort? Every time I squat and stand up, my left knee makes a sound; is that considered a problem? However, it doesn’t hurt, and the sound is like a popping noise.
Thank you, Doctor, for patiently reading my questions.

Xiao Mei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/08

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

1.
It could be tendonitis near the knee, and the noise might indicate a problem with the patella.

2.
Bone cancer typically causes localized swelling and significant pain, such as in the knee or hip.
If it has metastasized to the bones, back pain would indicate advanced stages, so you might be overthinking it.

3.
Since your knee is still uncomfortable, it's best to avoid quadriceps training for now.
Once it feels better, performing squats is normal; the sound you hear is just the tendon sliding over the bone.

Reply Date: 2021/02/08

More Info

Understanding knee discomfort can be complex, especially when it involves various symptoms and potential underlying causes. Based on your description, let's break down your concerns and provide some insights and recommendations.

1. Understanding Your Knee Discomfort
You mentioned experiencing discomfort in your left knee, particularly on the outer upper side, which becomes painful when pressed. The absence of swelling, redness, or heat is a positive sign, indicating that there may not be an acute inflammatory process. The discomfort following a period of hurried walking with luggage could suggest a strain or minor injury, especially if you are not accustomed to such physical activity.
The sound you hear when squatting could be attributed to several factors, including:
- Crepitus: This is a common phenomenon where gas bubbles in the joint fluid pop, causing a sound. It is often harmless.

- Tendon or ligament movement: Sometimes, tendons or ligaments can snap over bony structures, producing a sound without pain.

- Cartilage issues: If there is any wear or tear in the cartilage, it may also contribute to sounds during movement.

Given that you have a history of knee sounds since high school, this may not be a new issue but rather a chronic condition that has not worsened significantly.

2. Concerns About Bone Cancer
Your concern about bone cancer, particularly given your age and symptoms, is understandable but may be unfounded based on the information provided. Bone cancer typically presents with more severe symptoms, including significant pain, swelling, and sometimes systemic symptoms like fever or weight loss. The discomfort you describe in your back, which seems to resolve itself, is less likely to be related to bone cancer, especially if it is not persistent or worsening. However, if you have ongoing concerns, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation.

3. Strengthening Your Quadriceps
Strengthening your quadriceps is indeed beneficial for knee health, as strong muscles can help stabilize the joint and reduce discomfort. You can begin gentle strengthening exercises even if you are experiencing mild discomfort. Here are some recommendations:
- Isometric exercises: These involve contracting the muscle without moving the joint, which can help strengthen the quadriceps without putting too much strain on the knee.

- Straight leg raises: Lying down, keep one leg straight and lift it to the height of the opposite knee, holding for a few seconds before lowering it.

- Wall sits: Lean against a wall and slide down into a sitting position, holding for a few seconds before standing back up.

It is essential to listen to your body; if any exercise causes pain, stop immediately. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as your knee feels better.

Conclusion
In summary, your knee discomfort may be due to a minor strain or chronic condition rather than a severe injury or disease. It is advisable to monitor your symptoms and consult a healthcare professional if they persist or worsen. Engaging in gentle strengthening exercises for your quadriceps can be beneficial, but ensure you do so cautiously. If you have any further concerns, especially regarding the possibility of bone cancer, do not hesitate to seek medical advice for peace of mind and appropriate care.

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