Knee pain is becoming more common for many people. When you experience knee pain, you notice that even the simplest activity or task you do, on a daily basis, becomes difficult. From bending down to pick up a grocery bag, to climbing some stairs, or just getting out of bed in the morning and walking around the house, knee pain has a negative effect on your ability to function. When it comes to knee pain, our team at Innate Life Chiropractic in Palatine is experienced in understanding what the cause is and how to help you heal. 

Causes of Knee Pain

Knee pain can be due to several, different incidents. Sometimes the injury is obvious or sudden, such as a sports injury. You are able to recognize the cause of the pain immediately. Of course, there are other knee injuries that are more subtle than this. Aside from this, another common cause of knee pain is when the knee cartilage degenerates. This can happen over time, not immediately. Degenerated cartilage can cause arthritis in the knee, resulting in stiffening and inflammation in the joint.

The knee is a complex joint, relying on ligaments and muscles for stability. It is a major weight bearing joint, composed of the following:

• The tibio-femoral joint, located between the thigh and the lower leg;
• The patello-femoral joint, found between the knee cap and the thigh;
• Muscles and ligaments, which provide stability in the knee; and
• The menisci, which are two ring-shaped cartilage discs found in the knee.

When you experience knee pain, it is important that the knee joint is examined. In addition, the low back, pelvis, hip, ankle, and foot should also be looked at. Most often there is a biomechanical and/or neurological issue above or 

below the knee. Issues in the low back, pelvis, hip, or ankle can put stress on the knee and cause further injury.

How Knee Pain Affects Daily Life

Knee pain has a direct effect on how you perform daily tasks and activities. This includes using the stairs, sitting down or standing up, and even just walking. Decreasing your activity level, however, can cause issues to your overall physical and mental health, along with making you more likely to get injured. There is some good news, though. Being active can help take pressure off the knees. Overall, it is important to take care of your knees, and to seek help if you are experiencing pain.