Muscle and Joint
Joint pain can affect just one joint or many, and can be caused by arthritis, injury, overuse, or bursitis (an inflammation or irritation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that acts to reduce friction in a joint). Osteoarthritis can also cause joint pain and most commonly affects the knees, hips, spine and hands.
Causes of knee pain
With many of us living active lives, it’s no surprise that we put our knees through a lot. With a better understanding of the knee and how to deal with an injury, you can be knee-smart.
The knee has a complex structure which involves three bones, supported by important ligaments and a series of tendons. It is designed to bend, straighten, and bear the weight of the body whilst also working with the ankles and hips. Because of this pressure, knees are susceptible to injury.
Knee pain is either immediate (acute) or long-term (chronic). Acute knee pains can be caused by an injury from overexterting the joint, for example by playing sport or other activities.
Chronic knee pain may be caused by arthritis, or inflammation of tendons .
If you have a knee injury, remember P.R.I.C.E: Protect, Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.
Protect the injury and the person who has suffered the injury
Rest the knee and don’t try to put weight on it
Ice will help slow or reduce the swelling and provide a numbing sensation that will ease the pain. Don’t leave ice on for longer than 15 minutes as this can result in frostbite. Wait 40 minutes to 45 minutes before applying ice again.
Wrapping the injured knee with an elastic bandage or compression wrap will help keep it immobile and supported. Be sure not to wrap it too tightly
Elevating the injured knee will reduce swelling and pain.
