What causes limited knee flexion, and what should be done about it?
Feb 02, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Shuai
Introduction
Limited knee flexion may be caused by environmental factors, trauma, meniscus injury, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a physician. It is also advisable to consume foods rich in nutrients such as protein, vitamins, and minerals—such as eggs, lean meat, apples, etc.—to supplement the body's energy needs and help maintain overall health.
In general, limited knee flexion may be caused by environmental factors, trauma, meniscus injury, osteoarthritis, or rheumatoid arthritis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a physician. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Environmental Factors
Extreme weather conditions, such as cold and dampness, may reduce the flow of synovial fluid, thereby decreasing lubrication and causing stiffness in muscles and joints, making joint movement more difficult. Therefore, limited knee flexion may result from environmental factors. This can be alleviated by improving warmth retention and modifying living environments.
2. Trauma
If the knee experiences impact, friction, or puncture injuries, the surrounding soft tissues—such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments—may become damaged, leading to symptoms like joint stiffness, swelling, and pain, which can impair knee mobility and result in restricted flexion. Patients may follow medical advice to take medications such as Yunnan Baiyao Capsules, Sanqi Tablets, or Huoxue Zhitong Capsules for relief.
3. Meniscus Injury
The meniscus consists of two crescent-shaped cartilage discs located within the knee joint, primarily serving to absorb pressure, stabilize the joint, and reduce friction. When injured, the meniscus may trigger an inflammatory response in the knee joint, causing swelling of surrounding muscles and soft tissues, increasing intra-articular pressure, and restricting the range of motion. Thus, limited knee flexion may be due to meniscus injury. Under medical supervision, patients may use medications such as Indomethacin Tablets, Amoxicillin Capsules, or Diclofenac Sodium Sustained-Release Tablets to achieve symptom relief.
4. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a chronic joint disease characterized by degeneration of articular cartilage, joint inflammation, and bone spur formation. During flare-ups, progressive wear of the articular cartilage may cause pain, swelling, and restricted joint function. When the knee is affected, bending the leg increases friction and pain between bones, resulting in limited knee flexion. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as Acetaminophen Tablets, Meloxicam Tablets, or Piroxicam Tablets for treatment.
5. Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by chronic, progressive joint inflammation. During active phases, it may lead to joint stiffness, impairing joint mobility and causing limited knee flexion. Patients may, under medical supervision, use medications such as Prednisone Acetate Tablets, Compound Cyclophosphamide Tablets, or Ibuprofen Sustained-Release Capsules for treatment.
In daily life, it is recommended to consume foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals—such as eggs, lean meat, tomatoes, and apples—to supply necessary energy and support overall health. Additionally, engaging appropriately in activities such as slow walking, tai chi, or yoga may help reduce the risk of developing joint-related conditions.
