Medial Knee Pain: Symptoms and Causes

A medial knee injury can be caused by a number of factors. A number of structures are located on the medial side of the knee, and problems with one or more of these structures can lead to knee pain. The symptoms of inner knee pain may develop gradually over time or may appear suddenly following an injury to the knee. Symptoms may include pain on the inner side of the knee, restricted movement, or a sharp pain. Moreover, it is very common for muscle weakness and/or tightness to alter the knee, causing medial knee pain.

Symptoms Of Medial Knee Pain 

• The inner side of the knee joint is tender. This may increase over time or may occur suddenly if the knee has been severely injured.

• Sharp stabbing pain in knee that comes and goes.

• There may be bruises on the affected leg and stiffness when moving it.
• The swelling of the knee following an injury usually occurs within 48 hours.
• Standing on one leg or putting all your weight on the affected knee causes pain and discomfort.
• Stinging pain on outside of knee while kneeling may also be felt.
• Inability to straighten the affected leg without experiencing pain or discomfort.
• A popping, clicking, or grinding sound from the knee during movement.
• Stairs cause increased pain.

 It may appear that a knee is merely a hinge joint, yet numerous tendons, ligaments, and other tissues are responsible for its movement.  As a result, there are many things that can go wrong with the knee.

Causes of Medial knee pain

The following are possible causes of inner knee pain:

• Injury

Injuries sustained during sports or exercise, such as running, can lead to discomfort in the inner knee joint. Additionally, trauma resulting from incidents like falls onto the knees or accidents can also contribute to this type of pain. If you're seeking expert guidance, the specialists at Premier Injury Clinic Cleburne can provide valuable insights and tailored solutions for addressing these issues effectively.

• Bursitis

Inflammation of the pes anserine bursa, a condition that might be effectively addressed at Premier Pain Clinic, may cause inner knee pain. This inflammatory process occurs as a result of various factors, such as a knee injury or overuse. The articular bursa, which is a small sac filled with fluid, plays a crucial role in preventing friction between muscles, tendons, and bones in the knee area. Consequently, bursitis can lead to discomfort in the inner knee region, typically located around 2 to 3 inches below the knee joint.

• Sprain or Tear

An injury to the medial collateral ligament, or MCL, may result in inner knee pain. An injury usually results in an excessive twisting and tearing of the MCL.

As a result of striking or forcing the outer side of the knee, a strain develops along the inner side of the knee. In most cases, swelling or pain result from this injury almost immediately.

• Torn Meniscus

A meniscus is a protective cartilage that lines the knee joint. A tear in the medial meniscus can cause inner knee pain. It is possible to experience pain when moving the knee when the meniscus wears down over time.

• Knee Osteoarthritis

As a result of osteoarthritis, a person's protective cartilage wears down. Knees are particularly susceptible to this type of injury. The knees may be painful as a result of this condition, particularly in the morning.

• Medial Plica Syndrome

Inflammation of the plica may occur inside the knee due to this condition. Overuse injuries most commonly occur after a person increases their level of activity. Doctors may feel a tender nodule on the inner side of the knee.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis

Inflammation in the body is a symptom of rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease. A person suffering from rheumatoid arthritis may experience severe inner knee pain. Generally, the pain is worse in the morning and improves throughout the day

Diagnosis of Medial Knee Pain

The doctor will perform a physical examination on you. To assess discomfort, a physical examination may involve pressing and applying pressure to the area. Checking the integrity of a knee joint may involve a variety of movements and maneuvers. 

X-rays and MRI scans are particularly useful when assessing the extent of tendon and ligament injuries

Self-Help For Inner Knee Pain

• A knee injury can be treated in a number of ways.
• Rest your leg immediately after an injury and elevate it if possible.
• Reduce swelling by using ice packs and a tubular bandage (that fits over the knee).
• Ibuprofen can be used to manage pain.
• Crutches may be useful if you are unable to put weight on your leg.
• Whenever possible, avoid causing further injury to your knee.

Exercises

Strengthening and stretching your knees may help reduce inflammation and pain. Exercises that will be most effective in the treatment of medial knee pain will depend on the cause and should be tailored to the individual.

Possible exercises include:

• Quad Stretch

Performing quadriceps stretches can reduce knee joint pressure.

1. For balance and support, stand next to a sturdy chair.
2. Starting with your feet shoulder-width apart, take a step backward with your right foot.Your posture should remain straight and your buttocks should be tucked in so that your body is in a straight line.
3. Feel a stretch in the front of your legs as you bend your knees slightly.
4. Repeat this stretch for 10 seconds on the other leg.

• Hamstring Stretch

A seated stretch releases tension in the back of the leg.

1. Begin by extending one leg forward, flexing the foot backward.
2. Stretch the back of the leg by leaning slightly forward.

• Half Squats

With half squats, you can strengthen the front of your legs without putting excessive strain on your knees.

1. To begin, place your feet shoulder-width apart and extend your arms about shoulder height.
2. In order to engage the quadriceps muscles, bend your knees slightly.
3. Hold this position for approximately five seconds, and then straighten the knees in order to stand.