What causes pain above the knee?
Disease description:
Recently, I've been experiencing persistent pain above my knee, specifically in the area directly above the kneecap. The pain isn't too noticeable during regular walking, but it becomes significantly worse when going up or down stairs. The discomfort is especially intense when bending the knee. Therefore, I'm wondering—what could be causing this? Why does pain occur above the knee?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Common causes of pain above the knee:
1. Direct injury: Such as injuries from blunt force trauma or car accidents, which can directly cause bone or soft tissue damage above the knee, including fractures and muscle tears, resulting in pain.
2. Sports injuries: During vigorous exercise, forceful muscle contractions may also lead to soft tissue tears, such as tendon ruptures, which can subsequently cause pain.
3. Patellofemoral pain syndrome: This refers to pain in the front of the knee or below the kneecap, but sometimes it can extend upward to the area above the knee. This type of pain typically worsens with running, going up and down stairs, or straightening the knee after prolonged sitting.
4. Tendinitis: Particularly inflammation of the quadriceps tendon or patellar tendon, which connect the thigh muscles to the knee. These tendons may become inflamed due to overuse or injury, causing pain.
5. Iliotibial band syndrome: Common among runners, the iliotibial band is a band of tissue running from the hip to the outer side of the knee. Overuse or incorrect running posture may cause it to rub against the knee, leading to pain.
6. Meniscus injury: The menisci are two cartilage pads in the knee that help cushion the impact between the femur and tibia. If the knee sustains twisting injuries or pressure, the menisci may become damaged, resulting in pain and discomfort.
7. Gout: When uric acid levels in the body are elevated, uric acid crystals may deposit around the knee joint, causing pain, redness, swelling, and a burning sensation.
8. Osteoarthritis: A common degenerative joint disease in middle-aged and elderly individuals that may also cause pain above the knee.
