Knee pain is a prevalent condition affecting people of all ages. Its location can often provide clues about its underlying causes. Top knee pain locations might suggest bursitis or chondromalacia, while bottom knee pain could indicate conditions such as Osgood-Schlatter disease. Inner knee pain often points to issues such as medial meniscus tears, and outer knee pain could be due to iliotibial band syndrome. Middle knee pain often signifies anterior cruciate ligament injuries, and pain at the back of the knee might be linked to Baker's cyst. This insightful blog explains the various types of knee pain based on their location and potential causes.

Normal Knee Joint Structure

The knee is a complicated joint that connects the femur (thigh bone) with the tibia (shin bone), with the fibula next to the tibia. The patella, or kneecap, plays a critical role in this joint. Key components include the meniscus, a C-shaped cartilage acting as a shock absorber; bursae, fluid-filled sacs ensuring smooth movement; and the synovial membrane producing synovial fluid for lubrication. The stability of the knee is maintained by crucial ligaments such as the ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL, each playing a distinct role in stabilising and enabling movement.

Knee Pain

Knee Pain Location Chart

Location of Knee Pain	Possible Causes
Top of the Knee	Bursitis, Chondromalacia, Knee Osteoarthritis, Patella Tracking Syndrome
Bottom of the Knee	Osgood-Schlatter Disease, Osteochondritis Dissecans, Patellar Tendonitis, Patellofemoral Instability
Inner Knee	Pes Anserine Bursitis, Medial Knee Osteoarthritis, MCL Injuries, Medial Meniscus Tears
Outer Knee	Lateral Knee Osteoarthritis, Iliotibial Band Syndrome, LCL Injuries, Lateral Meniscus Tear
Middle of the Knee	Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear, Tricompartment Osteoarthritis
Back of the Knee	Baker's Cyst, Posterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries

Pain at the Top of the Knee

Pain experienced at the top of the knee can be indicative of several conditions -

Bursitis - Inflammation of the bursae, often caused by injury or systemic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Chondromalacia - Also known as the runner's knee, this involves the deterioration of the patella.

Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee Osteoarthritis - A form of arthritis causing pain in the patellofemoral compartment, often exacerbated by movement.
Patella Tracking Syndrome - A condition where the patella shifts out of place.

Pain At The Bottom Of The Knee

The bottom part of the knee is susceptible to -

Osgood-Schlatter Disease - Common in growing children, where tendons pull on the knee's growth plate.
Osteochondritis Dissecans - A disorder leading to the loosening or detachment of the knee meniscus.
Patellar Tendonitis - Inflammation of the kneecap tendon, prevalent in athletes.

Patellar Tendonitis

Patellofemoral Instability - Dislocation of the patella from its usual position.

Pain in the Inner Knee -

The medial aspect of the knee can experience pain due to-

Pes Anserine Bursitis - Inflammation in the bursae between the tibia and hamstring tendons.
Medial Knee Osteoarthritis - Arthritis in the medial compartment of the knee.
MCL Injuries - Often caused by sudden movements in sports.
Medial Meniscus Tears - Typically sports-related injuries from forceful twisting.

Medial Collateral Ligament tear

Pain In The Outer Knee -

Pain located on the knee's outer side might be due to -

Lateral Knee Osteoarthritis - Arthritis in the knee's lateral compartment.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome - Common in runners, where the iliotibial band is injured.

Iliotibial Band Syndrome

LCL Injuries - Usually from a direct blow to the knee's inside.
Lateral Meniscus Tear - Caused by excessive weight-bearing and twisting motions.

Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Pain in the Middle of the Knee -

Central knee pain, including under the kneecap, can be caused by-

ACL Tear - An injury common in sports and severe falls.
Tricompartmental Osteoarthritis - Arthritis affecting all three compartments of the knee.

Pain at the Back of the Knee -

The posterior aspect of the knee may hurt due to-

Baker's Cyst - A fluid-filled sac resulting from conditions such as osteoarthritis.

Baker's cyst

PCL Injuries - Often occurring from direct hits to the knee.

Identifying Serious Knee Pain

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, several signs suggest a need for emergency medical attention-

Severe knee pain.
A popping sound or sensation of the knee giving out during injury.
Inability to move the knee.
Limping or inability to bear weight.
Knee swelling following an impact.

Conclusion

The location of knee pain is a key indicator of its possible causes, ranging from injuries to chronic conditions such as arthritis. It's crucial to not overlook severe or persistent knee pain. Seeking timely medical advice is advisable, especially if the pain results from a significant impact or is accompanied by considerable swelling or discomfort around the joint. Understanding knee pain locations can lead to quicker diagnoses and more effective treatment strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions About Knee Pain

Q1. How can you identify your type of knee pain?
A1. Notice where it hurts, whether the pain is sharp or dull, its severity, any additional symptoms, and if it occurs constantly or only during certain actions such as bending.

Q2. Can you figure out the cause of knee pain yourself?
A2. Minor knee pain might be self-diagnosed and treated at home by observing symptoms. However, if home remedies fail, consult a doctor.

Q3. When should you worry about knee pain?
A3. Significant pain, swelling, fever, or persistent troubling symptoms warrant immediate medical attention.

Q4. What are the common causes of knee pain?
A4. Knee pain often results from injuries such as ligament tears, arthritis, or repetitive strain. Ageing, sports activities, and obesity can also contribute to knee pain.

Reference link

https://www.verywellhealth.com/sources-of-knee-pain-normal-joint-diagram-189258
https://www.healthline.com/health/knee-pain-location-chart