[Under 21F] Experiencing knee pain with movement and rest

What might be happening

Based on your symptoms, here are a few possibilities:

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS): This is a common cause of knee pain, especially among young, active individuals. It's often associated with activities that put pressure on the knee joint, such as ballet. The pain is typically located around or behind the kneecap and can be exacerbated by activities like squatting, running, or going up and down stairs. It can also be worse after sitting for prolonged periods, which is known as "theatre sign".

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy, including strengthening and stretching exercises for the muscles around the knee. Pain can also be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen.

• Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper's Knee): This is an overuse injury of the tendon that connects the kneecap to the shinbone. It's common in sports that involve jumping and sudden changes in direction, which might be relevant given your ballet activities. The main symptom is pain just below the kneecap.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Physical therapy can also be helpful.

• Osgood-Schlatter Disease: This is a condition that often occurs in teenagers and causes pain and swelling just below the knee, where the tendon from the kneecap attaches to the shinbone. It's especially common in those who participate in sports that involve running, jumping, and swift changes of direction.

  • Treatment usually involves rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Stretching and strengthening exercises can also be beneficial.

What you can do

1. Rest your knee as much as possible and avoid activities that exacerbate your pain.
2. Apply ice to your knee for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can help manage your pain. However, they should be used sparingly and not for prolonged periods without consulting a healthcare professional.
4. Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for your knee might be beneficial. However, these should be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional to avoid further injury.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your knee pain is severe or worsening
• You notice significant swelling or redness around your knee
• You have difficulty bearing weight on your leg
• You experience a fever, chills, or other signs of infection

Remember, while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor. Please consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.