Knee Pain

At a glance

The knee is the largest joint in the body. The upper and lower bones of the knee are separated by two discs (menisci). The upper leg bone (femur) and lower leg bones (tibia and fibula) are connected by ligaments, tendons, and muscles. The ligaments strap the inside and outside of the joint as well as cross within the joint. The surface of the bones inside the knee joint is covered by cartilage, which absorbs shock and provides a smooth surface for movements of the joint.

Most people have had a minor knee problem at one time or another. Most of the time our body movements do not cause problems but it is not surprising that symptoms develop from everyday wear and tear, overuse, or injury. Knee pain and injuries most often occur during sports or recreational activities, when engaged in work-related tasks, or home projects.

A number of factors can increase the risk of suffering knee pain; they include excess weight, lack of muscle flexibility or strength, and the practice of certain sports such as alpine skiing, basketball or rugby.

Pain can occur in the knee from diseases or conditions that involve the knee joint, the soft tissues and bones surrounding the knee, or the nerves that supply sensation to the knee area. Treatment therefore will vary, depending upon what precisely is causing the knee pain. Among non-invasive treatments on knee tendons, shock wave therapy has been found to be a safe and effective treatment option. It triggers the body’s own natural repair mechanisms to stimulate healing.