Inside of Knee Hurts When Straightened

July 3, 2024

Discover why the inside of your knee hurts when straightened, and explore effective treatments.

Understanding Knee Pain

Knee pain is a common ailment that affects a significant portion of the population. It can be caused by a variety of factors and can manifest in different ways. Understanding the causes and types of knee pain can help in seeking appropriate treatment and managing the condition effectively.

Causes of Knee Pain

Knee pain can be triggered by injuries, mechanical problems, types of arthritis, and other issues [1]. Injuries such as a ruptured ligament or torn cartilage can lead to knee pain. Medical conditions including arthritis, gout, and infections, can also cause knee pain.

Additionally, knee instability, often resulting from a ligament injury, can lead to pain. This condition creates the sensation of the knee twisting or moving from side to side during basic activities. Knee osteoarthrosis and patellar instability are also common causes of knee instability.

Knee pain is incredibly common, affecting around 19% of people in the UK at any given time. It can impact mood, hinder the ability to work, exercise, move around, and participate in daily activities.

Types of Knee Pain

Knee pain can be categorized based on the location of the pain, the nature of the pain, and the causes behind the pain. Some individuals may experience generalized knee pain, where the entire knee region hurts. Others may have localized pain, such as pain specifically on the inside part of the knee when it is straightened.

The nature of the pain can also vary. Some experience a sharp, stabbing pain, while others describe their knee pain as a dull, throbbing ache. Some individuals may have chronic knee pain that persists over a long period, while others may experience acute knee pain that comes on suddenly and may be related to an injury or trauma.

Identifying the type of knee pain can help healthcare providers diagnose the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. If you are experiencing knee pain, particularly when straightening the knee, it is important to seek medical advice to understand the cause of the pain and the potential treatments available.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Understanding the symptoms and diagnosis of knee pain, specifically when the inside of the knee hurts when straightened, is crucial in determining the right treatment and management approach.

Common Symptoms

Knee pain symptoms can vary greatly depending on the cause of the pain. Common symptoms may include a sharp or dull ache, swelling, stiffness, redness, warmth to touch, and inability to fully straighten the knee. For instance, knee instability is one symptom, characterized by a loose feeling in the knee joint or the ligaments supporting it.

Furthermore, knee pain can be immediate (acute) or long-term (chronic). Acute knee pain often results from injuries such as sprained and torn ligaments, meniscal injuries, knee dislocation, and dislocated kneecap. Chronic knee pain, on the other hand, may be due to conditions such as arthritis, bursitis, infection, patellofemoral syndrome, and IT band syndrome [4].

Type of Knee Pain	Common Causes
Acute	Sprained and torn ligaments, meniscal injuries, knee dislocation, dislocated kneecap
Chronic	Arthritis, bursitis, infection, patellofemoral syndrome, IT band syndrome

Diagnostic Procedures

The diagnosis of knee pain starts with a thorough medical history and physical examination. This may involve checking for points of tenderness, swelling, warmth, redness, visible bruising, and capabilities of moving the lower leg in different directions.

In addition to a physical examination, doctors may recommend imaging tests, such as an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan, to visualize the structures of the knee and to help identify any damages or abnormalities. Blood tests may also be needed to detect certain diseases or conditions that might be causing the pain.

By correctly diagnosing the cause of knee pain, appropriate treatments can be recommended to alleviate the pain and improve knee function. It's important to remember that knee pain is a common condition impacting around 19% of people in the UK at any given time, affecting mood and the ability to perform daily activities. Therefore, seeking professional help for persistent knee pain is important for maintaining quality of life.

Treatment Options

When experiencing discomfort in the knee, particularly the sensation of the inside of the knee hurting when straightened, there are a variety of treatment options available. These solutions range from non-surgical methods, including physical therapy and medication, to surgical interventions.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Non-surgical treatments are often the first line of defense against knee pain. These methods are particularly beneficial for treating knee instability, a condition that may affect active individuals who use their knees strenuously.

Initial treatment for knee instability typically involves rest, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, and physical therapy. This approach aims to reduce swelling, allow for natural healing of the ligament, regain range of motion, and regain strength. Most patients can then return to their prior levels of activity.

For injuries such as sprains and strains in the knee, which occur when tissues become stretched by unusual or increased activity, awkward twists, or trips, the PRICE method (Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) can help reduce pain and improve movement within days, with gradual improvement over the following weeks [6].

Moreover, physical therapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of chronic knee conditions. It offers a holistic approach to managing pain by addressing symptoms and underlying causes, such as muscle weaknesses or imbalances.

Surgical Interventions

In cases where knee pain is unmanageable through conservative treatments, surgical interventions may be necessary. These interventions can include arthroscopy, partial or total knee replacement, and realignment procedures, offering relief and restored mobility.

For ongoing kneecap instability, surgery may be required if the kneecap continues to shift, either fully or partially. Surgical procedures can involve the ligament, the bone, or both. Some patients may need a new ligament added to stabilize the patella, or the patella tendon moved to correct excessive lateral tracking. Recovery from such interventions typically takes three to six months.

In summary, when the inside of your knee hurts when straightened, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional. Depending on the severity and nature of your pain, treatment can range from non-surgical methods like rest, medication, and physical therapy, to surgical interventions for more severe cases. Always ensure to follow the advice of your healthcare provider to safely and effectively manage knee pain.

Specific Knee Conditions

Knee pain can be attributed to various knee conditions. Among these, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and patellar tendonitis are common causes of discomfort and pain, particularly when the knee is straightened. Each of these conditions has specific characteristics and symptoms.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most prevalent type of arthritis affecting the knee. Globally, 365 million people suffer from knee OA, with 73% of these individuals being over 55 years old. This condition can cause knee pain, swelling, and difficulty bending or straightening the knee [3].

Osteoarthritis is one of the leading causes of long-term knee pain, primarily affecting individuals over 65 years. In a healthy joint, the knee bends and straightens smoothly due to cartilage that covers the ends of the bones. Long-term damage to this cartilage results in osteoarthritis, which restricts movement and gradually increases pain [6].

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis, another common form of arthritis, can also cause knee pain. The symptoms often include swelling of the knee, redness, tenderness, warmth, and stiffness, typically worse in the early morning. Early treatment and consultation with a doctor are essential for accurate diagnosis and management of this condition [6].

Patellar Tendonitis

Patellar tendonitis, also known as jumper's knee, is a sports-related injury that is more common in men. Twice as many male non-elite athletes are affected compared to female non-elite athletes. This condition is often caused by strain on the tendon, particularly from activities like jumping on hard surfaces, leading to pain and discomfort when the knee is straightened.

Understanding these specific knee conditions can provide valuable insight into the potential causes of knee pain when straightening the knee. Early detection, diagnosis, and treatment can significantly improve the management of these conditions and reduce the associated pain and discomfort. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider if one experiences persistent knee pain.

Prevention and Management

Managing and preventing knee pain, especially when the inside of the knee hurts when straightened, involves both physiotherapeutic interventions and lifestyle changes. These measures can help in alleviating discomfort and improving the stability and functionality of the knee.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in managing knee pain. Therapeutic exercises not only help reduce discomfort but also strengthen the muscles around the knee, improving stability and preventing future injuries. It's important to consult with a physical therapist who can tailor exercises to your specific needs.

Some common physical therapy treatments for knee pain include:

Strengthening exercises: These focus on the muscles around the knee, such as the quadriceps and hamstrings, which help support and stabilize the knee.
Stretching exercises: These improve flexibility and range of motion, helping to alleviate stiffness and discomfort.
Balance exercises: These target the muscles that help you maintain balance, improving stability and preventing falls and injuries.

Physical therapy is a non-invasive approach and can be highly effective in managing conditions that cause knee pain, such as knee osteoarthrosis, patellar instability, and ligament injuries.

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to physical therapy, making certain lifestyle changes can significantly affect the management and prevention of knee pain. Here are some strategies to consider:

Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on the knees, decreasing the risk of injury and the worsening of conditions like osteoarthritis.
Regular exercise: Regular low-impact exercise, such as swimming or cycling, can help to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve stability, reducing the risk of injury.
Proper footwear: Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning can help to alleviate knee pain.
Avoiding activities that strain the knee: Activities that put excessive strain on the knee, such as heavy lifting or high-impact sports, should be avoided.

Home care for knee pain can also include protection, rest, ice, compression, and elevation (PRICE). Over-the-counter pain medicine like NSAIDs can also help in managing knee pain [4].

By combining the right physical therapy exercises with appropriate lifestyle changes, individuals experiencing knee pain when the knee is straightened can manage their symptoms effectively. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or exercise regimen to ensure it is safe and suitable for your specific condition and needs.

Surgical Procedures

When the inside of the knee hurts when straightened, and non-surgical treatments have not provided sufficient relief, surgical interventions may be considered. Two commonly performed procedures include arthroscopy and knee replacement.

Arthroscopy

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive knee surgery that allows doctors to view the knee joint without making a large incision. This procedure can be particularly helpful in diagnosing and treating issues that lead to knee pain when the joint is straightened.

During an arthroscopy, a surgeon will insert a tiny camera, called an arthroscope, into the knee joint. This allows them to view the inside of the joint on a screen and identify any issues, such as inflammation, tears, or damage to the tissues or cartilage.

Arthroscopy can often be used to treat sprains and strains in the knee, which occur when tissues become stretched by unusual or increased activity, awkward twists, or trips. The PRICE method (Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) can help reduce pain and improve movement within days, with gradual improvement over the following weeks.

Knee Replacement

When the knee joint is severely damaged, either by advanced osteoarthritis or irreparable injury, a knee replacement surgery may be considered. This procedure involves removing the damaged parts of the knee joint and replacing them with artificial components made of metal and plastic.

Knee replacement surgeries have a high success rate and can significantly improve the quality of life for chronic knee pain patients. The goal of knee replacement surgery is to relieve knee pain, improve mobility, and enhance the quality of life. After surgery, patients often experience a significant reduction in pain and improvement in their ability to perform daily activities.

It's important to note that while both arthroscopy and knee replacement can provide significant relief from knee pain, these procedures should be considered only after non-surgical treatments have been explored. As with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications, and recovery can take time. Always consult with a healthcare professional to discuss the best treatment options for your specific situation.