Causes of knee pain
Knee problems often arise in connection with overuse or injury. It is not uncommon for the menisci, collateral ligaments, or anterior cruciate ligament to be damaged. While the pain may sometimes improve over time, certain knee problems require treatment—ideally at an early stage.
Acute knee pain
Pain caused by external impact and strain, known as acute knee pain, often occurs after impacts, twists and strains. Tears in muscles, cruciate ligaments and other ligaments can also cause acute pain. This often happens as a result of accidents or activities that place considerable stress on the joints, leading to an overstrained and swollen knee. Sports injuries are one of the most common causes of knee pain and may result from prolonged overloading, overexertion, improper loading or inflammation in the muscles.
Chronic knee pain
When pain develops gradually and lasts longer than the expected healing time, it is referred to as chronic knee pain. Inflammation and wear and tear of the knee joint may be the cause. In chronic knee osteoarthritis, the pain also usually increases over time. The cartilage that cushions and lubricates the knee joint breaks down, causing the bones to rub against each other and resulting in pain and swelling. Pain caused by osteoarthritis of the knee usually worsens when putting weight on the knee and bending it. It may feel like a dull ache during both activity and rest, sometimes affecting both knees at the same time. Knee pain can also be caused by weakness in the back and gluteal muscles, as well as reduced mobility in the hip and ankle joints.
Relieve and prevent knee problems
Gentle, regular exercise helps maintain muscle strength, mobility and knee function. Walking, using an exercise bike, swimming and exercising in water can be suitable options that can be adapted to how you feel and the level of pain you experience. Strengthening and mobility exercises can also help improve control and stability around the knee joint.
A knee orthosis can complement exercise and other treatments for knee problems. Depending on the model and intended use, an orthosis can provide:
- Stability – support for instability or following certain knee injuries.
- Compression – a supportive, close-fitting design that can improve comfort and help manage swelling.
- Offloading – certain specially designed orthoses can reduce the load on a specific part of the knee joint.
- Controlled movement – postoperative knee orthoses may have adjustable settings to limit or control knee movement according to a treatment plan.
How to Choose the Right Knee Orthosis
The most suitable knee orthosis depends on the cause of the problem, how the knee functions and the level of support needed in everyday life or during physical activity. For milder symptoms, a basic knee support may provide compression and a close-fitting feel, while a more stabilising knee orthosis may be suitable for instability or following certain injuries. For osteoarthritis, an unloading orthosis may help reduce the load on the part of the knee joint causing pain. After surgery, a postoperative knee orthosis can help control knee movement during rehabilitation. NordiCare offers knee orthoses with different functions and levels of support to meet a range of needs. If you are unsure which model is most suitable, consult a healthcare professional or orthotist.
