Top Three Reasons for Back of Knee Pain

People who have back of knee pain can just about bet on one of three reasons for this pain; Arthritis, minor tear in the cartilage, baker’s cyst. These are the top three reasons for back of knee pain but not the only ones. There are other possibilities but doctors have found these are the most common back of the knee pain complaints. Let us look at each of the top three causes for pain in the back of the knee.

Pain in the Back of the Knee from Arthritis

Arthritis is the number one reason most people complain about pain in the back of the knee. Arthritis is the inflammation of the soft gel like cushion that is located between the joints. It can be very painful and if not cared for can lead to damage being done to the bone. Pain in the back [of knee] can usually be eased with rest, heat and pain medication. In some cases ice packs can help as well.

Back of the Knee Pain from a Tear in the Cartilage

Sometimes the knee cap can get caught on the rough edges of the cartilage which can cause a tear. If this is a micro tear, which most cartilage tears are, they can be eased with rest, heat and pain medication. In some instances such as a sports injury, pain in the back [of knee] requires surgery.

Pain in the Back of the Knee from Baker’s Cyst

A baker’s cyst can occur from both of the above problems. Fluid can then build up in your knee and then push its way out of the weakest point of your joint capsule. A cyst begins to form which has a valve that is made of your joint tissue which can sometimes get clogged. The fluid becomes trapped in the cyst and the swelling from this creates your pain. At back of the knee is where this usually happens and the pain is very difficult to ease.

Easing Pain at Back of Knee

There are a few things you can do to ease the pain in the back of knee:

1. Cryotherapy – Using ice for only 5 minutes at a time helps reduce the pain but you should not continue this therapy if a burning sensation is felt.
2. Heat – A heating pad can be used on a low setting for up to twenty minutes.
3. Creams – Applying creams that create a heating sensation can help ease the pain.
4. Brace – A brace can give relief and stability to the knee pain. Back of knee should be braced as well.

Rehabilitate the Pain at Back of the Knee

Rehabilitation is an important part of the healing process when it comes to pain in the back of the knee. You should talk to your doctor and get tips and instructions on rehabilitating your knee. Your rehabilitation may require professional techniques that cannot be performed at home so make sure you talk to your doctor before beginning any type of therapy.