What causes pain in the back of the knees when squatting?
Apr 17, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Jianjun
Introduction
Pain in the back of the knee during squatting may be caused by pathological conditions such as postural changes, meniscus injury, knee arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to determine the underlying cause with the help of a physician and receive targeted treatment, which can help improve symptoms. Adequate rest is important during treatment, and the affected limb should avoid bearing weight or overexertion.
Pain in the back of the knee when squatting may be caused by pathological conditions such as sudden postural changes, meniscus injury, knee arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout.
1. Postural Change
Suddenly squatting down can place excessive pressure on the knees, potentially causing pain when bending the knee. It is recommended to slow down movements when squatting or standing up, and avoid prolonged squatting or sitting in a crouched position, which may help improve symptoms.
2. Meniscus Injury
Excessive twisting of the lower limbs or long-term frequent activity may lead to over-friction or impact on the meniscus, resulting in meniscal damage. This often causes knee pain and limited mobility when bending the knee. Follow your doctor’s advice to take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as diclofenac sodium capsules, celecoxib tablets, or ibuprofen sustained-release capsules to help relieve pain.
3. Knee Arthritis
Long-term weight-bearing or previous knee trauma may lead to degenerative changes and pathological alterations in knee joint function, resulting in knee arthritis and causing discomfort such as soreness and swelling in the leg. Under medical guidance, use chondroprotective agents such as glucosamine sulfate capsules, glucosamine hydrochloride tablets, or sodium hyaluronate gel to help improve symptoms.
4. Rheumatoid Arthritis
This is an autoimmune disease that primarily affects joints, possibly leading to inflammation of the synovial membrane, causing symptoms such as joint swelling, pain, stiffness, and restricted movement. It is recommended to take antibiotics such as penicillin V potassium tablets, clindamycin hydrochloride capsules, or roxithromycin dispersible tablets under a doctor's supervision to alleviate symptoms.
5. Gout
Elevated uric acid levels in the body can cause uric acid crystals to deposit in joints and surrounding tissues, leading to symptoms such as knee pain, swelling, and joint deformity. Follow your doctor’s instructions to take medications such as allopurinol tablets, febuxostat tablets, or benzbromarone tablets to relieve symptoms.
It is advisable to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to accurately identify the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment, which helps improve symptoms. During treatment, ensure adequate rest and avoid weight-bearing or overuse of the affected limb.
