Knee pain can be a bothersome issue for people of all ages and lifestyles. If you suffer from chronic knee pain when sitting, it is important to address the problem immediately. Daily activities can be hindered by debilitating pain in the knees. As the pain continues, it can impact various aspects of your life. Knee pain can be caused by many different conditions. Because of this, there is no one treatment that can always address knee pain. Different conditions call for different approaches. Understanding some common causes of knee pain when sitting can help prepare you for effective treatment. 

Common causes of knee pain when sitting

• Arthritis — Arthritis is an umbrella term for certain conditions involving inflamed joints. The two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis refers to a degenerative condition where the cartilage around the joints breaks down. This can limit movement and cause pain as bones grind against each other. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. This type, like osteoarthritis, can cause chronic inflammation in the joints. Both arthritis types can affect the knee and lead to acute pain when sitting. Swelling around the kneecap can sometimes be worsened in sitting positions. Fortunately, the symptoms of arthritis can be alleviated. Physical therapy techniques are a popular choice for treatment. Targeted exercises can help to reduce pain and inflammation while maintaining joint function.

• Runner’s knee — Runner’s knee is also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome. Some refer to it as runner’s knee because it is often caused by vigorous physical activities. One of the most common symptoms of runner’s knee is pain around the kneecap. This pain can be exacerbated by sitting for extended periods. Treatments for this condition typically include strengthening exercises. To regain strength in the knee, it is important to work out the hip and thigh muscles as well. A physical therapy specialist can help you develop an effective workout plan. With runner’s knee, continual guidance and treatment is a great way to encourage rapid recovery.

• Bursitis — One common cause of inflammation in the knee is bursitis. A bursa is a sac located near a joint for cushioning. When these sacs are healthy, they function to reduce friction. Under strenuous conditions, though, bursae can become inflamed. Sitting can aggravate this inflammation, causing pain and tenderness. Gentle stretches are one way to help recover from bursitis. Hands-on physical therapy techniques like dry needling or joint mobilization can help mobilize the joint. Increasing mobility can help to reduce knee pain when sitting.

• Meniscus tears — The meniscus is a thin layer of cartilage positioned between joints in a joint cavity. Damaging this tissue can be a painful experience. If you have recently suffered a knee injury with lasting pain, you may have torn your meniscus. A meniscus tear is a common knee injury. Athletes and other highly active people are at a heightened risk for this injury. To recover from a meniscus tear, regaining strength in the muscles around the knee is important. Specialized physical therapy techniques can promote healing as well. For people with serious knee injuries, in-person physical therapy sessions can be difficult to attend. You may not be able to easily leave your home when your functional ability is limited. Fortunately, professional at-home physical therapy is available. This can allow you to receive one-on-one treatment from the comfort of your home.

• Tendinitis — Tendinitis refers to inflammation around the tendons, and the tendons around the knee joint can be vulnerable to this condition. Tendinitis can come from overuse or repeated straining motions. Inflamed tendons around the knee can lead to pain when sitting. A physical therapy specialist can address this with a personalized treatment plan. Physical therapy treatments can be designed to provide quick relief and create long-lasting improvement. Tendinitis can also be caused by repeated motions in the workplace. Because of this, physical therapy specialists can offer ergonomic solutions. These can foster a healthier workplace environment.

Address the root cause of your knee pain with Franklin Rehab

Are you ready to address your knee pain when sitting? Franklin Rehabilitation Physical Therapy can help. In addition to treating common conditions, our team has specialized expertise in treating complex health issues. When you receive care at our clinic, we strive to create an optimal experience. We hold our specialists to a high standard. This translates to high standards of care for whatever health concerns you face. Knee pain can be a difficult condition to deal with on your own. With our help, you can work toward relief and full recovery.

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.