Pain when bending your knee inwards can stem from several different issues within the joint. Here's a breakdown of the potential causes:
Understanding Inner Knee Pain
Inner knee pain, especially when bending, is often caused by problems with the structures on the medial (inner) side of your knee. Let's explore some of these common culprits.
Common Causes of Inner Knee Pain When Bending
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| MCL Issues | The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is a major stabilizer on the inner part of your knee. Strains or tears to the MCL can cause significant pain when bending. |
| Meniscus Tears | The meniscus acts as a shock absorber in the knee. Tears in the meniscus, particularly the medial meniscus on the inside, can lead to pain, especially during bending and twisting. |
| Pes Anserinus Tendinitis | This condition affects the tendons on the inside of your knee, causing inflammation and pain that can worsen with bending. |
Detailed Explanation of Causes
-
Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Issues:
- The MCL is crucial for knee stability. When it is stretched beyond its limit or torn, you'll likely experience pain on the inner side of the knee, which is particularly noticeable when bending.
- Example: A sudden twisting motion while playing sports can cause an MCL sprain or tear, leading to pain.
-
Meniscus Tears:
- The meniscus are C-shaped pieces of cartilage that cushion your knee joint. A tear, particularly in the medial meniscus, will cause discomfort, locking, or clicking sensations.
- Example: A deep squat or pivot can cause a meniscus tear.
-
Pes Anserinus Tendinitis:
- Pes anserinus refers to the insertion point of three tendons on the inner side of your knee, and when inflamed, can result in tenderness and pain that is exacerbated by activities like bending.
- Example: Overuse from running or repetitive movements can cause pes anserinus tendinitis.
What To Do if You Experience Inner Knee Pain
If you're experiencing pain when bending your knee inwards, it's important to:
- Rest: Avoid activities that make the pain worse.
- Ice: Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- See a Doctor: If the pain persists or is severe, seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.
The reference states that "Inner knee pain during bending can be attributed to various causes, including issues with the medial collateral ligament (MCL), meniscus tears, or conditions like pes anserinus tendinitis. This affects the knee tendon."
