Difficulty Bending Knee

Difficulty bending the knee can be a symptom associated with various underlying causes and related conditions

Common Causes of Difficulty Bending Knee

1. Osteoarthritis: The most common cause of knee joint pain and stiffness, osteoarthritis leads to the gradual breakdown of joint cartilage, restricting smooth knee movement.
2. Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder that can affect the knee joint, causing inflammation, pain, and difficulty bending.
3. Meniscal Tears: Tears in the knee’s shock-absorbing cartilage (meniscus) can hinder knee movement, leading to pain and stiffness.
4. Ligament Injuries: Injuries to the knee’s ligaments, like the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), can limit knee mobility.
5. Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs) around the knee can lead to swelling and difficulty bending.
6. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: Also known as “runner’s knee,” this condition can cause pain and discomfort when bending the knee.
7. Gout: Elevated uric acid levels can lead to crystal deposits in the knee joint, resulting in pain and reduced mobility.
8. Infections: Infections within the knee joint or surrounding tissues can cause swelling and limited movement.
9. Obesity: Excess body weight can strain the knee joint and impede flexibility.
10. Tumors: Benign or malignant tumors in or around the knee joint can restrict movement.

Proper evaluation of difficulty bending the knee typically involves a medical history, physical examination, imaging studies (X-rays, MRI), and sometimes arthroscopy to diagnose the underlying cause. Clemenceau Medical Center Hospital offers specialized orthopedic care to diagnose and manage knee conditions, providing appropriate treatment options like physical therapy, medications, or surgical interventions tailored to each patient’s needs. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to manage pain and prevent further joint damage or deformity.