Causes of pain in the back of your knee
You can experience pain at the back of your leg for several reasons. Here are the most common causes.
Hamstring Strain
Hamstring strains are common injuries that can cause knee pain at the back. The hamstring is located on the back of your thigh. It helps to flex your knee joint. You may feel pain in the back of the knee if you stretch or tear your hamstring.
Baker’s Cyst
Baker’s Cyst is a fluid filled sac that forms at the backside of the knee. This can be painful, especially when your knee is flexed or extended. Baker’s Cysts can be caused from a variety of factors including arthritis, cartilage tears or other knee injuries.
Meniscus Tear
The meniscus is cartilage that cushions your knee joint. You may feel pain at the back of your leg if you tear your Meniscus. Meniscus tears are often caused by sudden twisting movements, like during sports.
ACL or PCL Injuries
Both the anterior cruciate (anterior meaning front) and the posterior cruciate (posterior meaning back) ligaments are located in the knee joint. They help stabilize the knee. These ligaments can be damaged or torn, causing imbalances and pain at the back of the leg.
Jumper’s Knee
Patellar tendinitis or jumper’s leg is an inflammation of the patellar tendons. This condition occurs in athletes who perform repetitive jumping activities, like basketball or volleyball.
Arthritis
Arthritis, a common condition that can cause inflammation of the joints (including the knee), is very common. When you have arthritis, it can be felt at the back of your knee. It is usually accompanied by stiffness and swelling.
Popliteal Tendinitis
Popliteal tendon connects hamstring muscle to bones of the knee. You may feel pain at the back of your leg if this tendon is inflamed. Popliteal tendinitis is a rare condition.
See a doctor when you need to
You should consult a doctor immediately if your pain is severe or persistent or accompanied with other symptoms, such as a fever or swelling.
These symptoms often indicate an underlying serious condition that needs immediate treatment.
Treatment for your knee depends on its underlying cause. Treatment options include:
- Ice and Rest: Your doctor may advise you to apply ice and rest your knee if it is a minor injury such as a strain of the hamstring.
- Physical Therapy: Your physical therapist will work with you on a tailored exercise program to increase the strength and flexibility of your knees.
- Medicines: Your doctor may prescribe medications, such as anti-inflammatory or pain relievers, if you suffer from arthritis or other conditions that cause pain at the back of your leg.
- Surgery Sometimes, surgery is necessary to repair tissues torn or to remove a Baker’s cyst.
How to prevent pain in your back of the knee
Although not all knee pain can be avoided, you can reduce the risk of further injury or damage to your joint by taking certain steps:
- Stretch and warm up before exercising.
- Wear appropriate, fitting, supportive footwear.
- Increase your strength and endurance.
- Maintain healthy weight.
Consult your doctor if you have experienced knee pain before beginning any new sports or exercise routines that could cause injury to your knee.
