Knee pain is one of the most common complaints in the United States, affecting millions of people every year. In fact, studies estimate that nearly 25% of American adults suffer from chronic knee pain, making it a leading cause of disability and loss of mobility. Whether it stems from arthritis, injury, or overuse, knee pain can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life.

At MidAmerica Orthopaedics’ Total Joint Clinic in Chicagoland, we specialize in diagnosing and treating chronic knee pain, helping patients return to the activities they love. In this blog, we’ll explore the primary reasons behind the widespread issue of knee pain, examine relevant statistics, and discuss treatment options to help those suffering from this common problem.

Understanding Chronic Knee Pain: Why Is It So Common?

Knee pain can occur due to a variety of reasons, but what makes chronic knee pain especially debilitating is its persistence. Unlike acute pain caused by a sudden injury, chronic knee pain lasts for weeks, months, or even years, often without significant improvement.

So why do so many Americans struggle with knee pain? Here are a few key reasons:

1. Osteoarthritis: The Leading Cause of Knee Pain

The most common culprit behind chronic knee pain is osteoarthritis. Often referred to as "wear-and-tear" arthritis, osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints gradually deteriorates, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knees.

Studies show that over 32.5 million Americans have osteoarthritis, and the knees are one of the joints most commonly affected by this condition. As the cartilage wears away, bones begin to rub against each other, leading to increased pain and inflammation over time. This is especially common in older adults, but even younger people can experience osteoarthritis due to injuries or overuse.

At MidAmerica Orthopaedics’ Total Joint Clinic, we frequently treat patients suffering from osteoarthritis. Our specialists focus on pain management, physical therapy, and when necessary, minimally invasive procedures to alleviate the pain and restore mobility.

2. Injury-Related Knee Pain

Injuries are another major cause of chronic knee pain, especially for those who lead active lifestyles. Whether from sports, work, or everyday accidents, knee injuries can be slow to heal and, if not properly treated, can lead to long-term pain.

Common knee injuries that can result in chronic pain include:

• Torn Ligaments: The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the medial collateral ligament (MCL) are two of the most frequently injured ligaments in the knee. ACL tears are particularly common in sports that involve sudden stops and changes in direction, like basketball or soccer. Even after surgery, patients may experience lingering pain and stiffness.
• Meniscus Tears: The meniscus is a rubbery cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between the thigh and shin bones. A sudden twist or turn can tear the meniscus, causing swelling and pain that can persist for months or even years if not treated properly.
• Patellar Tendonitis: Often referred to as "jumper’s knee," patellar tendonitis is a common overuse injury among athletes, especially those involved in sports like volleyball or track and field. The condition results in chronic pain around the front of the knee and can be exacerbated by continued activity.

Proper rehabilitation and treatment are key to preventing injury-related knee pain from becoming a long-term issue. At MidAmerica Orthopaedics, we offer a range of treatments to help patients recover from knee injuries, including physical therapy, regenerative medicine, and surgical interventions when necessary.

3. Obesity and Its Impact on Knee Pain

Obesity is a significant risk factor for chronic knee pain. For every pound of extra body weight, the knee absorbs an additional 4 pounds of pressure during walking or running. This excessive stress wears down the cartilage in the knee joint, leading to pain, inflammation, and eventually arthritis. Obesity is not only associated with the development of osteoarthritis but also contributes to the severity of the pain.

Losing weight can have a dramatic impact on reducing knee pain. At MidAmerica, our multidisciplinary approach includes working with patients on weight management strategies to relieve stress on the joints and improve overall knee health.

4. Age and the Natural Degeneration of Joints

As we age, it’s natural for our joints to experience some wear and tear. This is particularly true for the knees, which bear much of the body’s weight. Age-related degeneration of the knee joint, such as the breakdown of cartilage, is one of the leading causes of chronic pain in adults over the age of 50.

By the time individuals reach their senior years, the likelihood of developing osteoarthritis or other knee problems increases significantly. While aging is inevitable, it doesn’t mean knee pain has to be. MidAmerica Orthopaedics offers several solutions, including minimally invasive treatments and joint replacement surgery, to help older adults maintain mobility and live pain-free lives.

5. Sedentary Lifestyles and Muscle Weakness

Inactivity can also play a significant role in the development of chronic knee pain. Leading a sedentary lifestyle weakens the muscles that support the knee, such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, and gluteal muscles. Weak muscles around the knee joint can lead to improper alignment and increased stress on the knee, causing pain over time.

Given the rising number of sedentary jobs and leisure activities, more Americans are at risk of developing knee pain due to muscle weakness and lack of movement. Incorporating regular physical activity, stretching, and strength training into your routine can go a long way in preventing knee pain caused by inactivity.

At MidAmerica Orthopaedics, we encourage our patients to stay active and incorporate exercises that strengthen the muscles around the knee joint. Our Total Joint Clinic team can create personalized exercise programs designed to relieve pain, improve joint function, and prevent future problems.

Treatment Options for Chronic Knee Pain

If you’re suffering from chronic knee pain, it’s important to know that there are treatment options available to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. At MidAmerica Orthopaedics’ Total Joint Clinic, we offer a variety of treatments, depending on the cause and severity of your knee pain. These treatments include:

• Physical Therapy: Strengthening the muscles around the knee and improving flexibility can help alleviate pain and prevent further damage.
• Regenerative Medicine: Stem cell therapy and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are cutting-edge treatments that can promote healing and reduce inflammation in the knee joint.
• Minimally Invasive Surgery: For patients with severe knee damage, minimally invasive procedures such as arthroscopy can repair damaged tissues with a shorter recovery time.
• Joint Replacement Surgery: In cases of advanced osteoarthritis or significant joint damage, a full or partial knee replacement may be necessary to restore mobility and eliminate pain.

Don’t Let Knee Pain Hold You Back

Chronic knee pain is a widespread issue in the United States, but you don’t have to live with it. If you’re one of the millions of Americans suffering from knee pain, the specialists at MidAmerica Orthopaedics’ Total Joint Clinic can help. With comprehensive treatment options and a focus on minimally invasive care, our team is dedicated to helping you find relief and get back to doing what you love.

If you're dealing with persistent knee pain, don’t wait. Schedule a consultation with MidAmerica Orthopaedics today to learn about the best treatment options for your condition.