Knee Pain

Knee pain is a common symptom rather than a single diagnosis. It can arise from osteoarthritis, patellofemoral pain, meniscus injury, ligament strain, tendon problems, bursitis, overuse, inflammatory arthritis, or referred pain from nearby structures. Some episodes are short-lived after a twist or increase in activity, while others develop gradually over months or years with stiffness, swelling, and reduced function. Because the knee is a weight-bearing joint, pain often affects walking, stairs, exercise, work demands, and sleep.

Treatment options vary because the best approach depends heavily on the likely cause, symptom pattern, severity, duration, activity goals, and risk tolerance. In Western care, options may range from exercise-based physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medicines to injections or, in selected structural disease, surgery. In Eastern and integrative care, approaches such as acupuncture, tai chi, and traditional herbal strategies are often used to address pain, mobility, and function. Research is strongest for some therapies and more limited or mixed for others, so an honest comparison helps patients weigh expected benefits, practical burden, and safety.