[64F] Experiencing knee pain and instability

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, the following conditions could be causing your symptoms:

• Knee Osteoarthritis: This is a common form of arthritis that occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of your bones wears down over time. Given your history of arthritis and obesity, this could be a contributing factor to your knee pain.

  • Treatment typically involves a combination of exercise, weight loss if you're overweight, pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs, and physical therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

• Baker's Cyst: This is a fluid-filled cyst that causes a bulge and a feeling of tightness behind your knee. The pain can get worse when you fully flex or extend your knee or when you're active.

  • Treatment usually isn't necessary for a baker's cyst. However, if the cyst is large and causes discomfort, your doctor may use a needle to drain the fluid from the cyst.

• Knee Bursitis: This is inflammation in the small fluid-filled pads (bursae) that act as cushions among your bones and the tendons and muscles near your joints. Knee bursitis often occurs in jobs or hobbies that involve frequent kneeling.

  • Treatment for knee bursitis often includes rest and physical therapy, and sometimes medications or surgery.

What you can do

1. Rest and elevate your knee: Try to avoid activities that aggravate your knee pain, especially any activity that causes you to twist, rotate or pivot your knee. If your knee is swollen, try to elevate it when you're sitting or lying down.

2. Ice your knee: Ice can help reduce inflammation. Use a cold pack, a bag of frozen vegetables or a towel filled with ice cubes for about 15 minutes at a time. Do this every two to four hours.

3. Wear supportive shoes: Consider wearing shoes that fit properly and support your feet. Shoes that have worn out, especially unevenly, can throw off your walk and put unnecessary stress on your knee.

4. Maintain a healthy weight: If you're overweight or obese, losing weight can reduce the stress on your knee. You don’t even need to get to your "ideal" weight. Smaller changes can make a big difference.

5. Physical therapy: Certain exercises can strengthen the muscles around your knee and help you maintain its stability. Balance exercises are key to maintaining knee stability. A physical therapist can assess your condition and develop a personalized exercise program.

What you should look out for

If your knee pain is accompanied by any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:

• An inability to walk comfortably on the affected side
• Injury that causes deformity around the joint
• Knee pain that occurs at night or while resting
• Knee pain that persists beyond a few days
• Locking (inability to bend) the knee
• Swelling of the joint or the calf area
• Signs of an infection, including fever, redness, warmth

Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. This advice is intended to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your healthcare provider.