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Knee pain is a common issue that can arise from various causes and affect people of all ages. Here are five essential things to know about knee pain:

1. Common Causes:
– Knee pain can be caused by a wide range of issues, including injuries (such as ligament tears, meniscus tears, or fractures), overuse (like tendinitis or bursitis), arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis), and mechanical problems (like misalignment of the kneecap).

2. Symptoms and When to See a Doctor:
– Symptoms can include swelling, stiffness, redness, instability, and difficulty bearing weight. If knee pain is severe, persists for more than a few days, or is accompanied by significant swelling, deformity, or a popping sound at the time of injury, it’s important to seek medical attention.

3. Risk Factors:
– Risk factors for developing knee pain include being overweight, lack of flexibility or strength in the muscles around the knee, certain sports or occupations that put repetitive stress on the knees, and age-related wear and tear.

4. Treatment Options:
– Treatment depends on the cause but can range from rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), to physical therapy, medications (like anti-inflammatories), injections (corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid), or surgery in more severe cases (like arthroscopy or knee replacement).

5. Prevention:
– Preventing knee pain involves maintaining a healthy weight, staying active with exercises that strengthen the muscles around the knee, ensuring proper warm-up and stretching before physical activity, and using proper footwear. Additionally, modifying activities that put excessive strain on the knees can help prevent pain.

Understanding these aspects of knee pain can help in managing or preventing it effectively, and knowing when to seek medical advice is crucial for optimal recovery.