Knee Pain in Teens: Causes and Solutions for Active Lifestyles

Knee

Doctor, may I ask why my knee often hurts and sometimes feels like the bones are rubbing against each other? I started experiencing this pain in the 9th grade, and now I'm in 10th grade.
The pain usually starts after I exercise, but if I exercise for about 30 minutes, it tends to hurt less.
I've seen three different hospitals, but none of the doctors have been helpful.
One doctor said it’s because I need to grow taller, and another said I’m too overweight, which is causing too much strain on my knees.

Shu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/04/17

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

The location of knee pain must be clearly identified.
If the pain is along the edge of the kneecap, there is a higher likelihood of tendonitis.
If the pain occurs below the kneecap at the junction with the femur, especially during squatting, going up and down stairs, or walking downhill, it is more indicative of an issue with the cartilage of the kneecap.
If the pain is at the junction of the ligaments of the kneecap and the prominence of the tibia, it may be indicative of inflammation at that attachment point.
In summary, it is essential to determine which specific area is problematic in order to address the issue.
It is advisable to consult a physician for clarification.

Reply Date: 2009/04/17

More Info

Knee pain in teenagers, especially those who are active in sports, is a common concern and can arise from various causes. Understanding the underlying issues and implementing appropriate solutions is crucial for recovery and maintaining an active lifestyle.

Causes of Knee Pain in Active Teens
1. Overuse Injuries: Engaging in sports like basketball, soccer, or running can lead to overuse injuries, particularly in the knee. Conditions such as Jumper's Knee (patellar tendinopathy) are prevalent among adolescents who frequently jump or run. This occurs due to repetitive stress on the knee joint, leading to inflammation and pain.

2. Growth-Related Issues: During adolescence, growth spurts can lead to temporary imbalances in muscle strength and flexibility. This can result in conditions like Osgood-Schlatter disease, where pain occurs below the knee due to stress on the growth plate.
3. Biomechanical Factors: Poor alignment of the legs, flat feet, or improper footwear can contribute to knee pain. These factors can alter the mechanics of how the knee absorbs impact during activities, leading to discomfort.

4. Weight Considerations: Excess weight can increase the load on the knee joints, exacerbating pain, especially during high-impact activities. Maintaining a healthy weight is essential for reducing stress on the knees.

5. Injuries: Acute injuries, such as ligament sprains or meniscus tears, can also cause knee pain. These injuries often occur during sports activities and may require medical evaluation and treatment.

Solutions for Managing Knee Pain
1. Rest and Activity Modification: The first step in managing knee pain is to reduce activities that exacerbate the symptoms. This may involve taking a break from high-impact sports and focusing on low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling.

2. Physical Therapy: Engaging in a structured rehabilitation program can help strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and correct any biomechanical issues. A physical therapist can design a program tailored to the individual’s needs.

3. Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice to the knee after activity can help reduce inflammation and pain. Heat therapy may be beneficial before activities to loosen up the muscles and joints.

4. Supportive Gear: Wearing knee braces or supports can provide stability and reduce pain during activities. Proper footwear that offers good arch support and cushioning is also important.

5. Weight Management: If excess weight is a contributing factor, working with a healthcare provider to develop a balanced diet and exercise plan can help alleviate stress on the knees.

6. Gradual Return to Activity: Once pain subsides, it’s essential to gradually reintroduce activities. This should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional to prevent re-injury.

7. Medical Evaluation: If knee pain persists despite conservative measures, further evaluation may be necessary. Imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs can help diagnose underlying issues that may require more specific treatment.

Conclusion
Knee pain in teenagers, particularly those engaged in sports, can stem from various causes, including overuse, growth-related changes, and biomechanical factors. Addressing these issues through rest, physical therapy, proper equipment, and weight management can significantly improve symptoms and allow for a return to an active lifestyle. If pain persists, seeking further medical evaluation is crucial to ensure appropriate treatment and prevent long-term complications.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Knee Pain: Causes, Treatments, and Growth Concerns in Teens

Hello, I would like to ask: Previously, I had knee pain and went to see a doctor. The doctor asked if I had been running or exercising, and I said yes, during physical education class, practicing for a relay race. When I stood up or walked up the stairs, my knee would hurt for a ...

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics
Knee pain can be caused by various conditions, and the location of the pain can help determine the diagnosis. If the pain is located at the front or next to the patella, it may indicate different issues. Pain at the interface between the patella and the femur could suggest a prob...

Understanding Knee Pain in Teenagers: Causes and Solutions

Hello doctor, my knee experiences abnormal soreness and pain when climbing stairs, often after just 10 steps. Additionally, I sometimes feel sudden pain during class, but if I ignore it, it usually goes away after about 10 minutes. I'm only 16 years old, and my usual exercis...

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics
Hello, I believe you may have a condition known as patellar valgus. I recommend that you visit an orthopedic clinic for further evaluation. Thank you.

Understanding Joint Stiffness and Pain: Causes and Solutions

The knee has a sensation of getting stuck, accompanied by a grinding noise when moving. When it feels stuck, there is often a dull ache. Previously, this issue was limited to the knees, but now it sometimes occurs in the wrists and occasionally in the chest area (between the ribs...

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics
Your issue involves multiple joints and there is no significant history of trauma. There are abnormal sounds in the joints, but you did not mention whether you have sought medical evaluation. It is recommended that you visit an orthopedic or rheumatology clinic for a detailed exa...

Essential Knee Care Tips for Young Professionals Facing Pain

Hello, doctor. I have a few questions: 1. During my student years, I didn't like to exercise and often sat for long periods. Recently, after working as an intern for six months, I started experiencing knee pain and visited a clinic. At that time, I was only prescribed anti...

Dr. Li Yanheng reply Rehabilitation
Based on your age and symptoms, you likely have patellofemoral pain syndrome (which is caused by insufficient strength in the thigh muscles leading to frequent friction between the patella and femur during activity, resulting in acute or chronic inflammation). Medication and reha...