The knee connects the thigh bone (femur) with the shin bone (tibia) and consists of many parts including the knee joint, knee cap (patella), ligaments, tissues and more. It’s a very complex part of the body and, due to it’s location and job, is prone to injury.
Anything that increases the already-present possibility of injury is considered a risk factor. Some risk factors for knee pain are listed below.
Risk Factors for Knee Injury
- Obesity. If it seems like everywhere you turn you’re told that being overweight increases your chance of injury it must mean something, right? Extra and undue stress on your knee joints adds pressure and causes the knee to work that much harder to do otherwise normal everyday tasks. It also increases the amount of wear and tear the knee undergoes, eliminating the vital cartilage that cushions the bones. This could lead to osteoarthritis.
- Low muscle strength. If the muscles surrounding the knee are weak and lack flexibility, they aren’t able to support the knee or absorb enough of the stress exerted on the joint throughout the day.
- Sports & physical activity. Sports and physical activities that call for the repeated twisting and/or pounding of the knees through constant running or jumping causes stress on the joint and can cause pain and injury.
- Existing injury. A previous knee injury or a current one that is still healing can put you at risk for additional injuries if the knee is made to sustain pressure or stress.
Get knee pain relief in Tampa.
Our pain specialists deal with concerns like knee joint pain and manage it for countless others on a daily basis. Like them, we want you to become pain-free and be able to enjoy life again without the constant discomfort.
Contact us today to talk about your knee pain and discuss the treatment options available.
