Pain on the Inside of the Knee: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Pain on the inside of the knee is a common issue that can affect people of all ages. Whether you are an active athlete or lead a more sedentary lifestyle, this type of pain can impact your mobility and quality of life. In this comprehensive guide, we will go through the most common causes of pain on the inside of the knee, typical symptoms, and how you can effectively treat the discomfort.
Inner Meniscus Injury
The meniscus is a cartilage structure in the knee that acts as a shock absorber. Injuries to the inner meniscus are one of the most common causes of pain on the inside of the knee. These injuries often occur due to twisting forces on the knee and can result in symptoms such as swelling, pain when twisting the knee, and a feeling that the knee "locks up".
Inner Ligament Injury (MCL)
The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is an important ligament on the inside of the knee. An injury to this ligament can occur from lateral forces against the knee or when the lower leg is twisted outward. Symptoms include pain on the inside of the knee, swelling, and a feeling of instability.
Osteoarthritis
Knee osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can cause pain on the inside of the knee as cartilage in the joint wears down. It is more common in older individuals and can lead to symptoms such as stiffness, swelling, and pain that worsens with weight-bearing activities.
Patellofemoral Pain
This condition involves pain around or behind the kneecap and may sometimes be felt on the inside of the knee. It is common among runners and can be caused by overuse or improper biomechanics.
Pes Anserinus Bursitis
This is inflammation of a bursa located on the inside of the knee, just below the joint line. It can cause a dull ache and tenderness on the inside ofthe knee, especially when walking up stairs or after prolonged periods of sitting.
Symptoms of Pain on the Inside of the Knee
Depending on the underlying cause, symptoms may vary, but common signs include:
- Sharp or dull pain on the inside of the knee
- Swelling around the knee joint
- Stiffness in the knee, especially in the morning or after prolonged sitting
- Pain that worsens with weight-bearing or specific movements
- A feeling of instability in the knee
- Difficulties bending or fully extending the knee
- Popping or clicking sounds from the knee during movement
Diagnosis and Examination
If you experience persistent pain on the inside of your knee, it is important to seek professional help. A doctor or physical therapist will conduct a thorough examination that may include:
- A physical examination of the knee
- A review of your medical history and activity level
- Specific tests to assess knee stability and function
- Imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI if necessary
Treatment for Pain on the Inside of the Knee
Treating pain on the inside of your knee often requires a multifaceted approach to achieve optimal results. A combination of different methods can often provide effective relief and promote faster recovery.
Behandlingsmetod | Beskrivning | Fördelar |
---|---|---|
PRICE-principen | Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation | Akut smärtlindring och minskad svullnad |
Fysioterapi | Individuellt anpassade övningar och manuell terapi | Stärker muskler, ökar rörlighet, korrigerar biomekanik |
Smärtlindring | Smärtstillande och antiinflammatoriska läkemedel | Lindrar smärta och inflammation |
Knäskydd (t.ex. KnäKomforten™) | Stödjande bandage eller skydd | Ger stabilitet, minskar svullnad, påskyndar läkning |
Kirurgi | Operativ behandling vid allvarliga skador | Reparerar omfattande skador på menisk eller ledband |
PRICE Principle
In cases of acute pain, the PRICE principle is often recommended:
- Protection: Protect the knee from further injury
- Rest: Avoid activities that worsen the pain
- Ice: Apply ice to reduce swelling and pain
- Compression: Use an elastic bandage to minimize swelling
- Elevation: Keep the leg elevated to reduce swelling
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is often an important part of treating pain on the inside of the knee. A physical therapist can assist you with:
- Individualized exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee
- Stretches to increase mobility
- Techniques to correct improper biomechanics
- manual therapy to improve joint function
Pain Relief
If necessary, pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications may be used to alleviate pain and inflammation. Always consult with a doctor or pharmacist before starting new medications.
Knee Supports and Braces
A quality knee support can provide stability, support, and pain relief for issues with the inside of the knee. KneeKomforten™ is an example of an effective aid that can provide compression, reduce swelling, and warm the joint, which may speed up healing and allow for a quicker return to activity.
Surgery
In some cases, especially with severe meniscus or ligament injuries, surgical treatment may become necessary. However, this is usually a last resort when conservative treatment has not yielded desired results.
Preventive Measures
To reduce the risk of pain on the inside of your knee, you can:
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I train with pain on the inside of my knee?
It depends on the intensity and cause of the pain. Light to moderate exercise can often be beneficial for the knee, but it is important to adjust the activity according to your symptoms. Avoid exercises that worsen the pain and instead focus on low-intensity activities such as swimming or cycling. Always consult a physiotherapist or doctor before resuming exercise after a knee injury.
How long does it take for pain on the inside of the knee to heal?
The healing time varies depending on the nature and extent of the injury. Minor injuries can heal in a few weeks with proper treatment and rest, while more serious injuries such as meniscus tears or ligament injuries may take several months. Consistent treatment, including physiotherapy and the use of supportive aids like KnäKomforten™, can expedite the healing process.
Can incorrect shoes cause pain on the inside of the knee?
Yes, improper shoes can contribute to pain on the inside of the knee. Shoes that do not provide adequate support or are worn out can affect your gait and the load on the knee. This can lead to overloading of structures on the inside of the knee. It is important to choose shoes that fit your foot type and activity, and to replace them regularly, especially if you are a runner or engage in other high-intensity activities.