Left Knee Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Left knee pain?

I would like to ask about a situation where I have been sitting in front of the computer for long hours at work.
I haven't fallen or bumped into anything, but suddenly my left knee started to feel pain.
Initially, it was manageable, but after a month, my left knee began to feel somewhat swollen, although not very noticeable.
However, the pain has been getting progressively worse, to the point where I feel pain even while walking.
It feels like there is a tendon that is causing pain in various areas.
I consulted a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner who didn't examine my knee directly but suggested that it was caused by issues in my lumbar spine, so I underwent some massage and acupuncture.
However, the next morning, I woke up with pain in my back where I had the massage.
I then went to a hospital and had an X-ray taken, but it seems there are no issues with the bones.
I'm unsure what the problem could be...
gout? tendonitis? Please help me with some guidance.
Thank you.

Xiao Yu Er, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/03/27

Dr. Zhou Hongzhi reply Orthopedics

There are no sports injuries; however, conditions such as gout and rheumatism are possible.
You may go to the hospital for a blood test for further examination.

Reply Date: 2005/03/27

More Info

Understanding left knee pain can be quite complex, especially when the symptoms are not linked to a specific injury or trauma. In your case, the gradual onset of pain, swelling, and discomfort while walking suggests that there may be underlying issues that need to be addressed.

Possible Causes of Left Knee Pain
1. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS): This condition is often characterized by pain around the kneecap (patella) and can be exacerbated by prolonged sitting or activities that put stress on the knee joint. It is common among individuals who sit for long periods, as the muscles around the knee can weaken, leading to improper tracking of the patella.

2. Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the knee, such as the patellar tendon, can cause pain. This is often due to overuse or repetitive strain, even if there hasn't been a specific injury.

3. Meniscus Tear: Although you mentioned no specific injury, degenerative tears can occur over time, especially in individuals who are active or have had previous knee issues. This can lead to pain, swelling, and a feeling of instability in the knee.

4. Osteoarthritis: This degenerative joint disease can develop over time, especially if there is a history of knee issues. It can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness, particularly after periods of inactivity.

5. Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint) can lead to localized pain and swelling. This can occur due to repetitive motion or prolonged pressure on the knee.

6. Referred Pain: As your experience with traditional Chinese medicine suggests, sometimes pain in the knee can be referred from issues in the lower back or hip. Conditions like a herniated disc or sciatica can manifest as knee pain.

Symptoms to Monitor
- Swelling: You mentioned a feeling of swelling in the knee. This could indicate inflammation or fluid accumulation in the joint.

- Pain Location: Identifying whether the pain is localized to a specific area (e.g., front, back, or sides of the knee) can help narrow down the cause.

- Mobility: Difficulty in bending or straightening the knee, or a sensation of locking or giving way, can indicate more serious issues like meniscus tears or ligament injuries.

Recommended Treatments
1. Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing activities that exacerbate the pain is crucial. Consider taking breaks from prolonged sitting and incorporating gentle movement to keep the joint flexible.

2. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a program tailored to strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and enhance overall function. This can be particularly beneficial if the pain is related to muscle imbalances or improper biomechanics.

3. Pain Management: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. However, consult with a healthcare provider regarding long-term use.

4. Ice and Compression: Applying ice to the knee can help reduce swelling and numb pain. Compression wraps can also provide support and reduce swelling.

5. Diagnostic Imaging: If symptoms persist, further imaging such as an MRI may be warranted to assess soft tissue structures like ligaments and cartilage, which X-rays do not capture.

6. Consultation with a Specialist: If your symptoms do not improve with conservative measures, consider seeing an orthopedic specialist for a comprehensive evaluation.

Conclusion
Knee pain can arise from various causes, and understanding the underlying issue is key to effective treatment. Given your symptoms, it is advisable to pursue a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional who can provide a definitive diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention can often prevent further complications and improve your quality of life.

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