Why Do Middle-aged and Elderly People Experience Pain on the Inner Side of the Knee?

Knee pain on the medial side in middle-aged and older adults may stem from various causes, with osteoarthritis being the most common. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disorder that progressively develops with aging. It leads to cartilage degradation within the joint, resulting in pain, swelling, and restricted mobility. Additionally, medial knee pain may be associated with tendinitis, ligament injury, meniscal tear, chondromalacia patellae, or knee bursitis. In some cases, knee pain may arise from metabolic disorders (e.g., gout), infection, or autoimmune diseases. To determine the precise cause of knee pain, a thorough medical history, physical examination, and appropriate imaging studies—such as X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound—are essential. Treatment options for knee pain may include physical therapy, pharmacotherapy, intra-articular injections, lifestyle modifications, or, in certain cases, surgical intervention. Maintaining a healthy body weight, engaging in moderate exercise, and following a nutritionally balanced diet can help prevent and alleviate knee pain.