Throbbing knee pain can be frustrating as well as concerning. Knee pain can hinder your ability to participate in many aspects of your daily life. Knee pain can also have a significant impact on mobility. If you’re an athlete, throbbing knee pain may prevent you from participating in your sport. When your knee is throbbing, finding relief is likely a top priority. Learning more about the cause behind your knee pain can inform your next steps as you seek treatment.
Research shows that knee pain affects around one-quarter of adults. This symptom can present in different ways depending on the causes behind it. In some cases, knee pain comes with a dull throbbing sensation. In other cases, it can feel sharp and piercing. Knee pain is often accompanied by other symptoms as well. You may experience swelling, tenderness, stiffness, instability and more. The symptoms you’re experiencing can help determine the cause of your pain. For a more definite answer, you can get a comprehensive evaluation from a physical therapist. After identifying the cause of your pain, your physical therapist can begin a course of personalized treatment.
Potential causes of throbbing knee pain
- Patellar tendinitis — Also known as jumper’s knee, patellar tendinitis is a kind of overuse injury. Patellar tendinitis happens when the patellar tendon becomes inflamed. The patellar tendon is a band of connective tissue running from the kneecap into the shinbone. The condition is called jumper’s knee because it often affects athletes who jump a lot. If you play a sport like basketball or volleyball, you may be at a higher risk for patellar tendinitis. Common symptoms to watch out for include tenderness and swelling around the kneecap. You may also feel throbbing aches and pains in the region below the kneecap. Because tendinitis is caused by overuse, rest is key to recovery. Physical therapy can also help with pain management and healing.
- Meniscus tear — The meniscus is an important piece of cartilage located between the shinbone and thighbone. The meniscus functions as a cushion, absorbing shock around the knee joint. When the meniscus tears, usually due to a sudden impact or twisting motion, it can lead to intense pain and swelling. Your knee may also feel very weak and stiff. The severity and longevity of your symptoms after a tear generally depend on how much damage the meniscus sustained. Your physical therapist can help provide an estimated recovery timeline for your injury. As you work to recover, physical therapy exercises can be essential. With targeted exercises prescribed by your physical therapist, you can accelerate your healing and regain your physical capabilities. Are you trying to get sports-ready after a meniscus tear? Return to sport therapy can help you get back in the game.
- Bursitis — Bursitis occurs when the bursae around the knee joint get irritated. Bursae are little sacs of synovial fluid that reduce pressure and friction around joints. A bursa can become inflamed when it’s subjected to repetitive pressure or a sudden impact. Activities that put a lot of pressure on the knees can lead to bursitis. Running is a common cause; activities such as gardening that involve a lot of kneeling can also contribute to bursa inflammation. If you have bursitis, your knee may feel warm and swollen. A throbbing pain around the knee is also common. Bursitis symptoms can be managed with physical therapy.
- Baker’s cyst — A Baker’s cyst is a growth that can develop behind the knee joint. Filled with fluid, a Baker’s cyst can swell and cause persistent throbbing pain around the knee. The swelling behind the knee can also limit the knee’s range of motion. Baker’s cysts are often caused by other knee conditions, such as meniscus tears and arthritis. By addressing the root cause, you can alleviate the symptoms of your cyst. Physical therapy can help address a Baker’s cyst and enable you to experience lasting relief.
REPAIR SI can help alleviate your throbbing knee pain
Are you ready to get knee pain relief? REPAIR SI can help. Our team utilizes treatment methods ranging from active release therapy to acupuncture. Your physical therapist will work with you to build a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your needs. We offer an array of evidence-based techniques designed to provide lasting relief from knee pain. With our help, you can alleviate your knee pain and get back to doing what you love.
Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.