A common but painful part of life is running our knees into something. While it does hurt, pain from this situation usually subsides fairly quickly. For certain others, they’re living with continuous pain. If you’re living with knee pain that will not subside, it’s important to get these matters fixed. Considering that, it’s understandable to want to know more about what could be causing you to feel pain or around your knees. With that in mind, here are four common causes of knee pain.

1. Arthritis
   
   Statistically, over 50 million people living in the United States have some type of arthritis. While it’s common to think that arthritis only affects someone’s wrists, this isn’t always the case. Many people live with arthritis affecting multiple parts of their body including their knees. There are several common types of arthritis that can occur in the knees including rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. In addition, post traumatic arthritis can take place after you’ve sustained damage to your knee. Common signs of arthritis in your knees include limited mobility and pain. In many cases, orthopedic surgery is needed to correct arthritic conditions.
2. Runner’s Knee
   
   While this condition is medically known as patellofemoral pain syndrome, you don’t have to be a runner to suffer from this condition. Many people suffering from runner’s knee develop this condition by continually straining their knees and legs. In addition, someone can suffer from this pain in either one or both knees at once. A myth about this condition is that runner’s knee occurs suddenly. While it’s true that runner’s knee can occur from trauma, repetitive movement of the legs can also cause this condition.
3. Bursitis
   
   Inside of knees themselves are pockets of liquid. These pockets work to ensure that bones are cushioned when they are close to each other. Bursitis occurs when one or several of these pockets become inflamed. Under certain conditions, bursitis can be treated with a round of antibiotics. If someone continually experiences this condition, it’s wise to see an orthopedic doctor as surgery might be needed.
4. Torn Cartilage
   
   In other situations, knee pain is caused by damage that occurs to nearby cartilage. Throughout the body, cartilage acts as a protective surface over many bones. Unfortunately, this cartilage can be torn which can cause severe knee pain. Any instance of torn knee cartilage will typically require surgery to fully repair.

To summarize, there are several common causes of knee pain. In some cases, physical therapy can work to repair certain causes of knee pain. However, it’s common for severe conditions to require knee surgery. That being said, these types of surgeries are often the best courses of action to take. You’ll want to speak with an orthopedic doctor to find out the best treatment plan for your specific situation.