[30F] With chronic knee pain and instability

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, here are some possible explanations for your knee pain:

• Osteoarthritis: This is a common condition where the cartilage in your knee joint wears down over time. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and stiffness, which can worsen with activity. Given your family history of arthritis and the chronic nature of your symptoms, this could be a likely cause.

  • Treatment: Typically involves pain management with medications like NSAIDs, physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee, and sometimes corticosteroid injections. In severe cases, surgical options like knee replacement may be considered.

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee): This condition is characterized by pain around the kneecap, especially when walking, squatting, or standing for long periods. It can be caused by overuse, muscle imbalances, or improper alignment of the kneecap.

  • Treatment: Includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), physical therapy to improve muscle strength and flexibility, and sometimes orthotics to correct alignment issues.

• Meniscus Tear: The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between your thigh bone and shin bone. A tear can cause pain, swelling, and a catching or locking sensation in the knee.

  • Treatment: May involve rest, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery to repair or remove the damaged part of the meniscus.

• Ligament Injuries: Injuries to the ligaments in your knee, such as the ACL or MCL, can cause pain, swelling, and instability. These injuries are often caused by sudden movements or trauma but can also result from chronic overuse.

  • Treatment: Ranges from rest and physical therapy to surgical repair, depending on the severity of the injury.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan, here are some steps you can take to manage your symptoms:

1. Rest and Ice: Give your knee a break from activities that worsen the pain. Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and pain.
2. Compression and Elevation: Use a knee brace or wrap to provide support and reduce swelling. Elevate your leg when resting to help decrease swelling.
3. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Physical Therapy: Consider seeing a physical therapist who can guide you through exercises to strengthen the muscles around your knee and improve flexibility.
5. Weight Management: Since you mentioned trying to lose weight, continue with a balanced diet and low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling, which are easier on the knees.
6. Symptom Tracking: Use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, and share your notes with your healthcare provider. This can help in identifying patterns and triggers for your knee pain.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe Pain: If your pain becomes unbearable or significantly worsens.
• Inability to Bear Weight: If you cannot put weight on your knee without severe pain or instability.
• Signs of Infection: Redness, warmth, and fever could indicate an infection in the knee joint.
• Persistent Swelling: If swelling does not improve with rest and home treatments.
• Numbness or Tingling: If you experience persistent numbness or tingling in your leg or foot.

Remember, while these suggestions can help manage your symptoms, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.