Published on: 4/28/2025
Many things like fluid build-up in the knee (knee effusion) and joint wear and tear (osteoarthritis) can make it hard to put pressure on the knee.
When you have trouble putting pressure on your knee, it might be a sign that something is not right with the joint. One common cause is knee effusion, which means that extra fluid is building up inside the knee. This extra fluid can cause swelling, pain, and a feeling of tightness that makes it difficult to move the knee normally. Another cause is osteoarthritis, a condition where the cartilage in the knee wears down over time. This wear and tear can lead to pain, stiffness, and joint damage. Both conditions make the joint less stable and more tender, so even small amounts of pressure can hurt. Sometimes, injuries like ligament sprains or meniscal tears might also make it difficult to bear weight on the knee. Tendinitis of the knee, which is oftentimes due to overuse leading to inflammation of the tendons, can also cause pain. It is important that anyone experiencing these symptoms see a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation so that the right treatment can be planned.
(References)
Lespasio MJ, Piuzzi NS, Husni ME, Muschler GF, Guarino A, Mont MA. Knee Osteoarthritis: A Primer. Perm J. 2017;21:16-183. doi: 10.7812/TPP/16-183. PMID: 29035179; PMCID: PMC5638628.
Thirumaran AJ, Deveza LA, Atukorala I, Hunter DJ. Assessment of Pain in Osteoarthritis of the Knee. J Pers Med. 2023 Jul 14;13(7):1139. doi: 10.3390/jpm13071139. PMID: 37511752; PMCID: PMC10381750.
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