Why do I have knee pain? Causes and how to prevent it

You wake up in the morning, take your first step, and feel pain in your knee. When you go up the stairs, the pain gets worse. You wonder: why do I have knee pain? And, most importantly, how can I fix it?

If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. Pain is one of the most common ailments, affecting people of all ages. In this article, you'll discover the main causes of pain, how to prevent it, and what to do to avoid future injuries.

Causes of knee pain

Pain can occur for a number of different reasons. Some of the most common ones include:

1. Knee injuries

Injuries are one of the main causes of pain . They can occur due to falls, impacts or sudden movements. Some of the most common are:

• Ligament sprain : This occurs when the ligaments in your knee are stretched or torn.
• Meniscus tear : This occurs when the knee twists sharply.
• Patellar tendonitis : Inflammation of the tendon that connects the kneecap to the tibia, common in athletes.

2. Joint wear and arthritis

The cartilage in your knee wears down over time, causing pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis is one of the main causes of knee pain in older adults. There are also other forms of arthritis that can cause inflammation in the joint.

3. Overload and misuse of the knee

Being overweight, not stretching, or overusing the knee during physical activities can cause discomfort. Running without the right shoes or doing high-impact exercises without enough rest can cause inflammation and pain.

Joint Pain Prevention Joint Pain : How to Protect Your Knees

Preventing pain is possible with simple habits that strengthen the joint and prevent injuries. Here are some key tips:

✔ Strengthens muscles: Exercises such as gentle squats and stretches help protect the knee.
✔ Avoid being overweight: Every extra kilo puts pressure on the knee, increasing the risk of wear and tear.
✔ Wear appropriate footwear: Shoes with good support reduce the impact on the knee when walking or running.
✔ Rest and apply cold or heat: If you feel discomfort, give your body a break and use cold compresses to reduce inflammation.

When to consult a specialist

If the pain is severe, persists for weeks, or is accompanied by swelling, it is important to see a doctor. A specialist can diagnose the exact cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

Take care of your knees before it's too late

Knee pain can have many causes, from knee injuries to joint wear and tear. The best way to avoid long-term discomfort is to adopt habits that help prevent joint pain.

If you experience frequent discomfort, pay attention to your body's signals and take steps to protect your joints. Taking care of your knees today can prevent problems in the future.