Knee

This page outlines some of the most common conditions that present at the knee. 

This is not meant to be used as a diagnostic tool. If you are experiencing any symptoms seek advice from a GP, Physiotherapist or other health care professional. If you have a medical emergency please call 999 or 111 for more immediate help or advice. 

Often caused by a recent change in activity levels, weight or type of training done.

Initially may present as a pain at the start of exercise which improves with movement, but returns causing stiffness following activity or in the morning. In some cases the pain can return during activity as well.  

Normally characterised by painful clicking or the feeling of the knee becoming stuck or locked. Usually occurs following a twisting injury.

Usually the result of a trauma to the knee or leg.

Often results in a feel of instability in the joint, or the feeling that it may give way.

In some cases ligament and meniscus can both be injured during a trauma to the knee. 

Most noticeable is loss of range of movement through the knee, sometimes the feeling of grinding or catching in the restricted motion. However inly phases OA may present as pain with in the joint or under the patella.

(usual range is 135 degrees flexion with 5 degrees of extension)

Often a notable lack of power due to pain or inability ranging from discomfort to complete inability perform movement or weight bear.

A report of the muscle having a feeling of "going", or sudden pop or snap. Sometimes described as feeling like the muscle was hit.

In the knee area a part of the structure is a pad of fat which sits below the patella. this can become inflamed causing pain. 

An inflamed fat pad can sometimes be seen and will likely be most sore in activities involving over extension. 

A cyst is a fluid filled compartment. the most common one in the knee is a Bakers cyst that can present as pain with a swelling or lump in the back of the knee. Often these flare up with activity and leave the surrounding tissue feeling bruised. 

In some cases they may stay swollen or become so large they start to interfere with movement, if this is the case then they may drain the cyst however this procedure doesn't prevent a reoccurrence. 

If you do a sport that puts a lot of pressure on one side of the quadricep muscle than the other it can result in an unlevel movement of the patella causing pain. 

This is not a complete list of possible knee conditions. There are many other conditions that can affect the structures. If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort, or are concerned about your knee it is best to contact your health care provider for advice.