There are several potential reasons why you might be unable to move your knee, and these often stem from underlying injuries or conditions.
Here's a breakdown of some common causes:
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Injury: Direct trauma to the knee can cause significant damage.
- Fracture: A break in one of the bones that make up the knee joint (femur, tibia, or patella).
- Dislocation: Displacement of the bones that form the knee joint from their normal position.
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Inflammation and Swelling: Issues that cause inflammation within the knee joint can restrict movement.
- Bursitis: Inflammation of the bursae (fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint).
- Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendons around the knee.
- Arthritis (Rheumatoid or Gout): Degenerative diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or gout can cause inflammation and swelling, impeding knee movement, as stated in the provided reference: "A degenerative disease, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout, may also cause inflammation and swelling that impedes knee movement."
In some cases, what feels like a locked knee (where you are unable to move it) might actually be a pseudo-locked knee. According to the reference information, a pseudo-locked knee can have many causes, and some are listed above. It's important to seek medical evaluation to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment.
