Sore Behind Knee

Soreness behind the knee, also known as posterior knee pain, can have various causes, ranging from minor issues to more serious conditions.

Below, we outline the common causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for soreness behind the knee:

Causes

1. Strain or Overuse: Overuse of the muscles and tendons around the knee joint due to activities like running, jumping, or cycling can lead to strain and soreness behind the knee.

2. Hamstring Injury: The hamstring muscles run along the back of the thigh and connect behind the knee. A strain or tear in these muscles can cause discomfort and soreness behind the knee.

3. Baker’s Cyst: Also known as a popliteal cyst, a Baker’s cyst is a fluid-filled swelling that can develop at the back of the knee joint. It can cause pain and discomfort, particularly when the knee is bent.

4. Meniscus Tear: The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that provides cushioning to the knee joint. A tear in the meniscus, particularly the posterior horn, can lead to pain behind the knee.

5. Popliteal Tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons at the back of the knee can cause soreness. This condition can occur due to repetitive motions or overuse.

6. Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear of the knee joint over time can lead to osteoarthritis, causing pain and discomfort, including behind the knee.

Diagnosis

To determine the cause of soreness behind the knee, a healthcare professional may perform the following:

1. Physical Examination: The doctor will examine the knee, assess the range of motion, and palpate the area to identify tender points.

2. Imaging Tests: X-rays, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), or ultrasound may be used to visualize the structures within the knee joint and identify any abnormalities, such as tears or cysts.

3. Clinical History: Discussing the patient’s medical history, activities, and onset of symptoms can provide valuable information for diagnosis.

Treatment

The treatment of soreness behind the knee depends on the underlying cause:

1. Rest and Avoidance of Aggravating Activities: Resting the knee and avoiding activities that worsen the pain can promote healing.

2. Ice and Compression: Applying ice to the affected area and using compression bandages can help reduce inflammation and provide relief.

3. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design exercises to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and address any muscle imbalances contributing to the soreness.

4. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen, NSAIDs) can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.

5. Corticosteroid Injections: In some cases, a doctor may recommend injecting corticosteroids into the knee joint to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

6. Surgical Intervention: If the soreness is caused by more severe conditions like a meniscus tear or Baker’s cyst, surgical options may be considered.

It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of soreness behind the knee, especially if the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms.

Early intervention can help prevent the condition from worsening and improve your overall knee health.