Knee Pain in Elderly Adults

Most of us think that experiencing joint issues like pain, swelling, or stiffness, specifically in the knee joints, are an inevitable and guaranteed part of the aging process. And while it is true that some occasional aches and twinges may likely be age-related, knee pain is not necessarily a foregone conclusion. With a proper diagnosis as to the cause of chronic knee pain and proper treatment, knee pain in elderly adults can be avoided or at least reduced and managed to mitigate the discomfort and impact on quality of life.

There are many issues that can cause knee pain, the most common of which is osteoarthritis, which is the most common type of arthritis to affect the knee joint. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease where the cartilage that cushions the joints and allows them to glide freely over each other gradually wears away. Rheumatoid arthritis, where the joints are impeded by inflammation, is another form of arthritis that can affect the knee, but younger adults tend to be affected by it as well.

Tendonitis, which is inflammation of the tendons, is generally caused by overuse or repetitive movement. Tendons are the stretchy tissue that connects the muscles to the bone and allows for movement. Athletic activities like running, jumping, and cycling can all cause tendonitis in the knee joint.

Treatment for knee pain depends on the root cause. Consulting with your primary care physician or an orthopedist can give you a clear picture of the source of your knee pain, and then give you a treatment plan for managing it.