Understanding Knee Pain: Injury vs. Arthritis Symptoms
Knee pain is a common complaint among people of all ages, but the underlying cause can vary significantly. Two of the most prevalent causes are injuries and arthritis, each presenting with its own set of symptoms and challenges.
Understanding the differences between these two can be crucial in seeking the right treatment and managing your pain effectively!
Today’s post explores the distinct symptoms of knee pain due to injury and arthritis, helping you identify your specific condition.
Knee Pain from Injury: Identifying the Signs
- Sudden and Severe Pain: Often occurs immediately after the injury.
- Swelling and Tenderness: The knee might swell within a few hours of injury.
- Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty bending or straightening the knee fully.
- Instability: A feeling that the knee might 'give out'.
These symptoms are usually acute and can be linked to a specific event or injury.
Arthritis-Related Knee Pain: Understanding the Chronic Condition
- Gradual Increase in Pain: Pain that worsens over time, often worsening after periods of inactivity or towards the end of the day.
- Stiffness: Particularly noticeable in the morning or after sitting for long periods.
- Swelling: Can be mild and more constant than with an injury.
- Reduced Flexibility: Difficulty in performing full range of motion movements.
Arthritis-related knee pain is often associated with aging or wear and tear on the joints