What causes weak and unstable knees?

Sep 12, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Jian
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the knee refers to the knee joint. Knee weakness or giving-way sensation may be related to factors such as aging, excessive exercise, meniscus injury, chondromalacia patellae, and rheumatoid arthritis. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek professional medical treatment under a doctor's guidance. Patients should avoid strenuous exercise, ensure adequate rest, and maintain a light diet, which may help alleviate symptoms.

Under normal circumstances, the knee refers to the knee joint. Knee weakness or a feeling of giving way may be related to factors such as aging, overexertion, meniscus injury, patellar chondromalacia, and rheumatoid arthritis. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek professional medical treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Aging

With increasing age, the articular cartilage gradually wears down and muscle strength weakens, which may lead to knee weakness. It is recommended to engage in moderate low-intensity exercise to strengthen muscles and reduce joint stress.

2. Overexertion

Prolonged high-intensity exercise or sudden increases in physical activity can cause fatigue in the muscles surrounding the knee joint, resulting in feelings of weakness. Adequate rest and avoiding excessive exercise are advised.

3. Meniscus Injury

Meniscus injuries may result from infection, trauma, or other external forces. Tears or damage to the meniscus can compromise knee stability and support, leading to knee weakness. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as knee locking, restricted movement, and discomfort. Under medical supervision, medications such as diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets, celecoxib capsules, and amoxicillin capsules may be recommended.

4. Patellar Chondromalacia

Patellar chondromalacia may arise from degeneration or damage to the patellar cartilage. The smooth contact between the patella and femur decreases, increasing friction within the knee joint, which may result in knee weakness. Symptoms may include knee pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Under medical guidance, topical ketoprofen gel, Sanqi tablets, and Dahuoluowan (a traditional Chinese medicine) may be used for treatment.

5. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis may be caused by immune system dysfunction, in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the tissues of the knee joint, causing soreness and weakness. It may be accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Medications such as ibuprofen capsules, cefradine capsules, and enteric-coated aspirin tablets may be used as directed by a physician.

Patients are advised to avoid strenuous exercise, ensure adequate rest, and maintain a light diet to help alleviate symptoms.

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