The knee is a complex joint made up of cartilage, ligaments, menisci and the kneecap. Injuries or degeneration affecting these structures can lead to pain, swelling, instability or reduced movement.
Common Knee Conditions
Knee problems generally fall into several categories.
Ligament Injuries
Ligaments stabilise the knee joint. When injured they can cause instability or a sensation of the knee giving way.
Common conditions include:
- Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury
- Medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury
- Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury
- Lateral collateral ligament (LCL) injury
- Multiligament injury
- Posterolateral corner injury
Meniscus Injuries
The meniscus acts as a shock absorber in the knee.
Meniscus tears can cause:
- pain with twisting
- locking or catching
- swelling after activity
Common conditions:
Cartilage Damage
Cartilage covers the ends of bones in the knee joint.
Damage can occur through injury or wear over time.
Conditions include:
These injuries may cause persistent pain and swelling.
Knee Arthritis
Osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage gradually wears away from the joint surface.
Symptoms may include:
- persistent knee pain
- stiffness
- reduced walking tolerance
Joint replacement may be considered when arthritis becomes advanced.
Patellofemoral (Kneecap) Conditions
The kneecap (patella) is involved in knee movement.
Common problems include:
These conditions often cause pain at the front of the knee.
When Should You See a Knee Surgeon?
You may benefit from specialist assessment if you experience:
- persistent knee pain
- swelling that does not settle
- instability or the knee “giving way”
- locking or catching in the joint
- reduced ability to walk or exercise
A consultation allows a detailed assessment and discussion of treatment options.
How Knee Conditions Are Treated
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:
- physiotherapy
- activity modification
- strength training
- weight loss
- injections
- painkillers
- surgery
Most knee problems can initially be managed without surgery, depending on the diagnosis.