Why Does The Outside Of My Knee Hurt? It’s a common question, and at WHY.EDU.VN, we provide comprehensive answers, exploring various potential causes from IT band syndrome to meniscus tears, offering practical solutions for pain relief. Discover expert insights on lateral knee pain and treatment options, including exercise and stretches. Understand the specifics of outer knee discomfort and how to address it effectively through guidance found at WHY.EDU.VN.
1. Understanding Lateral Knee Pain: Why the Outside of Your Knee Hurts
Lateral knee pain, or pain on the outside of your knee, can be a frustrating and debilitating condition. It can limit your ability to participate in activities you enjoy, from running and hiking to simply walking or climbing stairs. Identifying the specific cause of your lateral knee pain is crucial for effective treatment and recovery. At WHY.EDU.VN, we understand the complexities of knee pain and provide detailed explanations and potential solutions.
1.1. Common Causes of Pain on the Outside of the Knee
Several factors can contribute to pain on the outside of your knee. Some of the most common causes include:
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Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome: This is perhaps the most frequent culprit behind lateral knee pain, especially in runners and cyclists.
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Lateral Meniscus Tear: A tear in the cartilage on the outer side of your knee can cause pain, swelling, and a feeling of instability.
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Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Injury: The LCL provides stability to the outside of your knee. Injuries can range from sprains to complete tears.
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Biceps Femoris Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendon of the biceps femoris muscle, which runs along the outside of your thigh and attaches to the knee.
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Osteoarthritis: While often associated with the entire knee, osteoarthritis can sometimes affect primarily the lateral compartment.
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Referred Pain: Pain originating from the hip or lower back can sometimes radiate to the outside of the knee.
1.2. Risk Factors for Outer Knee Pain
Certain factors can increase your risk of developing pain on the outside of your knee. These include:
- High-Impact Activities: Running, jumping, and other activities that put repetitive stress on the knee joint.
- Inadequate Warm-up and Stretching: Failing to properly prepare your muscles and joints before exercise.
- Muscle Imbalances: Weakness in certain muscle groups, such as the hip abductors or core muscles.
- Poor Biomechanics: Improper running form, foot pronation, or other biomechanical issues.
- Previous Knee Injuries: A history of knee injuries can make you more susceptible to future problems.
- Obesity: Excess weight places additional stress on the knee joint.
- Improper Footwear: Shoes that lack adequate support or cushioning.
2. Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome: A Frequent Culprit
Iliotibial (IT) band syndrome is a common cause of lateral knee pain, particularly among runners, cyclists, and other athletes who engage in repetitive leg movements. The IT band is a thick band of fibrous tissue that runs along the outside of your thigh, from your hip to your knee. It helps to stabilize your hip and knee during activity.
2.1. What is IT Band Syndrome?
IT band syndrome occurs when the IT band becomes tight, inflamed, and irritated as it rubs against the bony prominence on the outside of your knee (the lateral femoral epicondyle). This friction can cause pain, tenderness, and a snapping sensation in the knee.
2.2. Symptoms of IT Band Syndrome
The symptoms of IT band syndrome typically develop gradually and worsen with activity. Common symptoms include:
- Pain on the outside of the knee: This is the most common symptom. The pain may be sharp, burning, or aching.
- Tenderness to the touch: The area around the lateral femoral epicondyle may be tender when pressed.
- Snapping sensation: Some people experience a snapping or popping sensation in the knee as the IT band rubs over the bone.
- Pain that worsens with activity: The pain typically increases with running, cycling, or other activities that involve repetitive knee movements.
- Pain that radiates up the thigh: In some cases, the pain may radiate up the outside of the thigh towards the hip.
2.3. Diagnosing IT Band Syndrome
A physical exam is usually sufficient to diagnose IT band syndrome. Your doctor or physical therapist will assess your symptoms, range of motion, and perform specific tests to evaluate the IT band. One common test is the Ober’s test, which involves lying on your side and having your upper leg extended and then lowered towards the table. If the IT band is tight, you may experience pain or difficulty lowering your leg completely. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI, are typically not necessary unless other conditions are suspected.
2.4. Treatment Options for IT Band Syndrome
Treatment for IT band syndrome typically involves a combination of conservative measures aimed at reducing inflammation, pain, and restoring normal function.
Treatment | Description |
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Rest | Avoid activities that aggravate your symptoms. This may involve temporarily reducing your mileage, intensity, or cross-training with low-impact activities. |
Ice | Apply ice packs to the outside of your knee for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. This helps to reduce inflammation and pain. Ensure a cloth barrier is between the ice and skin to prevent ice burn. |
Stretching | Regularly stretch your IT band and surrounding muscles, such as your hip flexors, quadriceps, and hamstrings. |
Foam Rolling | Use a foam roller to massage the IT band and release tension. Roll slowly and gently along the outside of your thigh, focusing on areas that feel tight or tender. |
Strengthening Exercises | Strengthen your hip abductors (gluteus medius) and core muscles to improve stability and control of your hip and knee. |
Pain Medication | Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation. |
Corticosteroid Injections | In some cases, your doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation around the IT band. |
Physical Therapy | A physical therapist can provide guidance on proper stretching and strengthening techniques, as well as address any underlying biomechanical issues that may be contributing to your IT band syndrome. |
Orthotics | If you have flat feet or other biomechanical issues, orthotics (shoe inserts) may help to improve your foot alignment and reduce stress on the IT band. |
Surgery | Surgery is rarely necessary for IT band syndrome. However, in cases where conservative treatment fails to provide relief, surgical release of the IT band may be considered. |
3. Lateral Meniscus Tear: Understanding the Cartilage on the Outside of Your Knee
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage in your knee that acts as a shock absorber between your thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). Each knee has two menisci: a medial meniscus on the inside of the knee and a lateral meniscus on the outside of the knee.
3.1. What is a Lateral Meniscus Tear?
A lateral meniscus tear is a tear in the cartilage on the outer side of your knee. It can occur due to a sudden injury, such as a twisting motion or direct blow to the knee, or from gradual wear and tear over time.
3.2. Symptoms of a Lateral Meniscus Tear
The symptoms of a lateral meniscus tear can vary depending on the severity and location of the tear. Common symptoms include:
- Pain on the outside of the knee: This is the most common symptom. The pain may be sharp, stabbing, or aching.
- Swelling: The knee may swell within a few hours or days of the injury.
- Stiffness: The knee may feel stiff and difficult to bend or straighten.
- Clicking or popping sensation: You may feel or hear a clicking or popping sensation in the knee when you move it.
- Locking: The knee may become locked in a bent or straight position.
- Giving way: The knee may feel unstable and give way during activity.
- Tenderness to the touch: The area around the lateral meniscus may be tender when pressed.
3.3. Diagnosing a Lateral Meniscus Tear
Your doctor will perform a physical exam to assess your symptoms, range of motion, and stability of your knee. They may also perform specific tests, such as the McMurray test, to evaluate the meniscus.
Imaging tests, such as MRI, are typically used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the size and location of the tear. X-rays may be taken to rule out other conditions, such as osteoarthritis.
3.4. Treatment Options for a Lateral Meniscus Tear
Treatment for a lateral meniscus tear depends on the severity of the tear, your age, activity level, and overall health.
Treatment | Description |
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RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) | These measures can help to reduce pain and swelling in the initial stages of the injury. |
Pain Medication | Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation. |
Physical Therapy | A physical therapist can guide you through exercises to strengthen the muscles around your knee, improve your range of motion, and restore stability. |
Meniscus Repair Surgery | If the tear is significant and causing persistent symptoms, your doctor may recommend surgery to repair the meniscus. This is typically done arthroscopically, using small incisions and a camera to guide the procedure. |
Partial Meniscectomy | In some cases, the torn portion of the meniscus may need to be removed. This procedure is called a partial meniscectomy and is also typically performed arthroscopically. |
4. Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Injury: Stabilizing the Outside of Your Knee
The lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is a ligament on the outside of your knee that connects your thighbone (femur) to your shinbone (tibia). It helps to stabilize the knee joint and prevent excessive sideways movement.
4.1. What is an LCL Injury?
An LCL injury occurs when the LCL is stretched or torn. This can happen due to a direct blow to the inside of the knee, a twisting injury, or other trauma. LCL injuries are less common than medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries.
4.2. Symptoms of an LCL Injury
The symptoms of an LCL injury can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Common symptoms include:
- Pain on the outside of the knee: This is the most common symptom. The pain may be sharp, throbbing, or aching.
- Swelling: The knee may swell within a few hours or days of the injury.
- Stiffness: The knee may feel stiff and difficult to bend or straighten.
- Instability: The knee may feel unstable and give way during activity.
- Tenderness to the touch: The LCL may be tender when pressed.
- Bruising: Bruising may occur around the outside of the knee.
4.3. Diagnosing an LCL Injury
Your doctor will perform a physical exam to assess your symptoms, range of motion, and stability of your knee. They may also perform specific tests to evaluate the LCL, such as the varus stress test.
Imaging tests, such as MRI, are typically used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the injury. X-rays may be taken to rule out other conditions, such as fractures.
4.4. Treatment Options for an LCL Injury
Treatment for an LCL injury depends on the severity of the injury.
Treatment | Description |
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RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) | These measures can help to reduce pain and swelling in the initial stages of the injury. |
Pain Medication | Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation. |
Bracing | A knee brace may be used to protect the knee and provide stability during healing. |
Physical Therapy | A physical therapist can guide you through exercises to strengthen the muscles around your knee, improve your range of motion, and restore stability. |
LCL Reconstruction Surgery | In cases of severe LCL tears, surgery may be necessary to reconstruct the ligament. This typically involves using a graft to replace the damaged ligament. |
5. Biceps Femoris Tendonitis: Inflammation of the Outer Knee Tendon
Biceps femoris tendonitis is a condition that affects the tendon of the biceps femoris muscle, which is located on the back of your thigh and runs along the outside of your knee.
5.1. What is Biceps Femoris Tendonitis?
Tendonitis refers to the inflammation or irritation of a tendon. The biceps femoris is one of the hamstring muscles, and its tendon attaches to the fibula (lower leg bone) near the outside of the knee. Overuse, repetitive movements, or direct trauma can lead to biceps femoris tendonitis.
5.2. Symptoms of Biceps Femoris Tendonitis
Common symptoms of biceps femoris tendonitis include:
- Pain on the outside and back of the knee: Pain may be felt directly at the tendon insertion point on the outside of the knee, or it may radiate up the back of the thigh.
- Tenderness to the touch: The tendon may be sensitive to pressure.
- Stiffness: The knee may feel stiff, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
- Pain that worsens with activity: Activities that involve bending or straightening the knee, such as running, jumping, or squatting, may aggravate the pain.
- Swelling: In some cases, there may be mild swelling around the tendon.
5.3. Diagnosing Biceps Femoris Tendonitis
A physical examination is typically sufficient to diagnose biceps femoris tendonitis. Your healthcare provider will assess your symptoms, range of motion, and palpate the tendon to check for tenderness. In some cases, imaging tests such as MRI may be used to rule out other conditions or confirm the diagnosis.
5.4. Treatment Options for Biceps Femoris Tendonitis
Treatment for biceps femoris tendonitis typically involves a combination of conservative measures aimed at reducing inflammation, pain, and restoring normal function.
Treatment | Description |
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Rest | Avoid activities that aggravate your symptoms. This may involve temporarily reducing your mileage, intensity, or cross-training with low-impact activities. |
Ice | Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. This helps to reduce inflammation and pain. |
Stretching | Regularly stretch your hamstrings and surrounding muscles to improve flexibility and reduce tension on the tendon. |
Strengthening Exercises | Strengthen your hamstrings and surrounding muscles to improve stability and support the knee joint. |
Pain Medication | Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation. |
Physical Therapy | A physical therapist can provide guidance on proper stretching and strengthening techniques, as well as address any underlying biomechanical issues that may be contributing to your tendonitis. |
Corticosteroid Injections | In some cases, your doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation around the tendon. However, these injections are typically used sparingly due to potential side effects. |
6. Osteoarthritis: Lateral Compartment Involvement
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that can affect any joint in the body, including the knee. While OA often affects the entire knee joint, it can sometimes primarily involve the lateral compartment (the outer side of the knee).
6.1. What is Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, the smooth tissue that cushions the ends of bones in a joint. As the cartilage wears away, the bones rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
6.2. Symptoms of Osteoarthritis in the Lateral Knee
Symptoms of osteoarthritis in the lateral compartment of the knee may include:
- Pain on the outside of the knee: This is the most common symptom. The pain may be dull, aching, or sharp.
- Stiffness: The knee may feel stiff, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
- Swelling: The knee may swell after activity or during periods of inflammation.
- Clicking or grinding sensation: You may feel or hear a clicking or grinding sensation in the knee when you move it.
- Decreased range of motion: You may have difficulty bending or straightening your knee fully.
- Bone spurs: Bony growths (bone spurs) may develop around the joint, contributing to pain and stiffness.
6.3. Diagnosing Osteoarthritis
Your doctor will perform a physical exam to assess your symptoms, range of motion, and stability of your knee. X-rays are typically used to confirm the diagnosis of osteoarthritis and assess the extent of cartilage damage. MRI may be used in some cases to provide more detailed images of the soft tissues in the knee.
6.4. Treatment Options for Osteoarthritis
There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but various treatments can help to manage pain, improve function, and slow the progression of the disease.
Treatment | Description |
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Lifestyle Modifications | Weight loss, regular exercise, and avoiding activities that aggravate your symptoms can help to reduce stress on the knee joint. |
Pain Medication | Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help to manage pain. Prescription pain medications, such as opioids, may be used for more severe pain but should be used cautiously due to potential side effects. |
Physical Therapy | A physical therapist can guide you through exercises to strengthen the muscles around your knee, improve your range of motion, and reduce pain. |
Assistive Devices | Braces, canes, or walkers can help to provide support and reduce stress on the knee joint. |
Corticosteroid Injections | Corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation in the knee joint. |
Hyaluronic Acid Injections (Viscosupplementation) | Hyaluronic acid is a substance that naturally occurs in the joint fluid. Injections of hyaluronic acid can help to lubricate the joint and reduce pain. |
Surgery | In cases of severe osteoarthritis, surgery may be necessary to replace the damaged knee joint with an artificial joint (total knee replacement). |
7. Referred Pain: When the Problem Isn’t in the Knee
Sometimes, pain on the outside of your knee may not actually originate from the knee itself. Referred pain occurs when pain from another area of your body is felt in a different location. In the case of lateral knee pain, the source of the pain may be in your hip or lower back.
7.1. How Does Referred Pain Work?
Referred pain occurs because nerves from different areas of the body can converge in the spinal cord. When a nerve is stimulated in one area, the brain may misinterpret the signal as coming from another area that shares the same nerve pathway.
7.2. Common Sources of Referred Pain to the Knee
- Hip Problems: Conditions such as hip osteoarthritis, hip bursitis, or a labral tear in the hip can cause pain that radiates down the leg to the outside of the knee.
- Lower Back Problems: Sciatica, spinal stenosis, or a herniated disc in the lower back can compress nerves that travel down the leg, causing pain that is felt in the knee.
7.3. Identifying Referred Pain
If your doctor suspects that your lateral knee pain may be referred pain, they will perform a thorough examination of your hip and lower back to identify any potential sources of pain. They may also order imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI, to evaluate these areas.
7.4. Treatment for Referred Pain
Treatment for referred pain focuses on addressing the underlying cause of the pain.
Source of Pain | Treatment Options |
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Hip Problems | Physical therapy, pain medication, corticosteroid injections, hip replacement surgery (in severe cases). |
Lower Back Problems | Physical therapy, pain medication, epidural steroid injections, surgery (in severe cases). |
8. Home Remedies and Self-Care for Outer Knee Pain
In many cases, you can manage your lateral knee pain at home with a combination of self-care measures. However, it’s important to seek professional medical advice if your pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, such as swelling, instability, or locking.
8.1. RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
The RICE protocol is a cornerstone of self-care for many types of injuries, including lateral knee pain.
- Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate your symptoms.
- Ice: Apply ice packs to the outside of your knee for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
- Compression: Use a compression bandage to help reduce swelling.
- Elevation: Elevate your leg above your heart to help reduce swelling.
8.2. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation. Follow the instructions on the label and talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns. As a reference, updated guidelines can be found on the NHS website for Ibuprofen and Paracetamol.
8.3. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
Regular stretching and strengthening exercises can help to improve flexibility, stability, and function of your knee.
- IT Band Stretch: Stand with one leg crossed in front of the other. Lean towards the side of the leg that is in front, feeling a stretch along the outside of your thigh.
- Hamstring Stretch: Sit on the floor with your legs extended. Reach towards your toes, keeping your back straight.
- Quadriceps Stretch: Stand and grab your foot, pulling it towards your buttock.
- Glute Bridge: Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Lift your hips off the floor, squeezing your glutes.
- Clamshell Exercise: Lie on your side with your knees bent. Keeping your feet together, lift your top knee up, squeezing your glutes.
8.4. Proper Footwear
Wearing shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning can help to reduce stress on your knee joint. If you have flat feet or other biomechanical issues, orthotics (shoe inserts) may be helpful.
9. Seeking Professional Help: When to See a Doctor
While many cases of lateral knee pain can be managed with home remedies and self-care, it’s important to seek professional medical advice if your pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms.
9.1. Red Flags: Symptoms That Warrant a Doctor’s Visit
- Severe Pain: Pain that is unbearable or that prevents you from walking or bearing weight on your leg.
- Swelling: Significant swelling around the knee joint.
- Instability: The feeling that your knee is giving way or buckling.
- Locking: The inability to fully bend or straighten your knee.
- Numbness or Tingling: Numbness or tingling in your leg or foot.
- Signs of Infection: Fever, chills, redness, or warmth around the knee.
- Lack of Improvement: If your pain does not improve after several weeks of home treatment.
9.2. What to Expect During a Doctor’s Visit
During your doctor’s visit, they will ask you about your symptoms, medical history, and activity level. They will also perform a physical exam to assess your knee. Depending on your symptoms and the results of the physical exam, your doctor may order imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI, to help diagnose the cause of your pain.
9.3. Questions to Ask Your Doctor
- What is the most likely cause of my lateral knee pain?
- What treatment options are available?
- What are the risks and benefits of each treatment option?
- How long will it take to recover?
- What can I do to prevent future knee problems?
10. Preventing Outer Knee Pain: Long-Term Strategies
Preventing lateral knee pain involves addressing risk factors and adopting healthy habits that support the health and function of your knee joint.
10.1. Warm-Up and Stretching
Always warm up your muscles and joints before engaging in physical activity. This helps to increase blood flow and prepare your body for exercise. Stretching regularly can help to improve flexibility and reduce tension in your muscles.
10.2. Proper Exercise Technique
Using proper technique during exercise can help to reduce stress on your knee joint. If you’re unsure about proper technique, consider working with a personal trainer or physical therapist.
10.3. Gradual Progression
Avoid increasing your activity level too quickly. Gradually increase your mileage, intensity, or duration of exercise to allow your body to adapt.
10.4. Strength Training
Strengthening the muscles around your knee, including your quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and core, can help to improve stability and support your knee joint.
10.5. Weight Management
Maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce stress on your knee joint. If you’re overweight or obese, losing weight can significantly reduce your risk of developing knee pain.
10.6. Proper Footwear
Wearing shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning can help to reduce stress on your knee joint. If you have flat feet or other biomechanical issues, orthotics (shoe inserts) may be helpful.
10.7. Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to your body and stop any activity that causes pain. Ignoring pain can lead to more serious injuries.
11. Expert Insights and Emerging Treatments
The field of sports medicine and orthopedics is constantly evolving, with new research and treatments emerging all the time. Staying informed about the latest advancements can help you make informed decisions about your care.
11.1. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
PRP injections involve injecting a concentrated solution of platelets into the injured area. Platelets contain growth factors that can help to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation. PRP injections are being used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including lateral meniscus tears and LCL injuries.
11.2. Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell therapy involves injecting stem cells into the injured area. Stem cells have the potential to differentiate into various types of cells, including cartilage and bone cells, which can help to repair damaged tissue. Stem cell therapy is being investigated as a potential treatment for osteoarthritis and other knee conditions.
11.3. Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques
Advances in surgical techniques have led to the development of minimally invasive procedures that can be used to treat a variety of knee conditions. These procedures involve using small incisions and specialized instruments, which can result in less pain, faster recovery, and improved outcomes.
12. FAQ: Addressing Your Common Questions About Outer Knee Pain
12.1. What is the most common cause of pain on the outside of the knee?
Iliotibial (IT) band syndrome is often the primary culprit, particularly for runners and cyclists.
12.2. How can I tell if my outer knee pain is serious?
Severe pain, significant swelling, instability, locking, or numbness warrant immediate medical attention.
12.3. Can flat feet cause outer knee pain?
Yes, flat feet can contribute to biomechanical issues, increasing stress on the outer knee.
12.4. What exercises are best for strengthening the muscles around the knee?
Glute bridges, clamshell exercises, and squats are effective for strengthening supporting muscles.
12.5. Are there any stretches that can help relieve outer knee pain?
IT band stretches, hamstring stretches, and quadriceps stretches can provide relief.
12.6. When should I consider surgery for my outer knee pain?
Surgery is usually considered when conservative treatments have failed and symptoms persist.
12.7. Can referred pain cause discomfort on the outside of the knee?
Yes, pain from the hip or lower back can sometimes be felt in the outer knee area.
12.8. Is it safe to run with outer knee pain?
Running with pain is generally not recommended; rest and appropriate treatment are essential.
12.9. How does weight affect outer knee pain?
Excess weight increases stress on the knee joint, exacerbating pain and potential injuries.
12.10. Can improper footwear contribute to outer knee pain?
Yes, shoes lacking proper support and cushioning can increase stress on the knee joint.
Experiencing persistent or unexplained pain on the outside of your knee can be concerning, but understanding the potential causes and available treatments is the first step toward relief. Remember, accurate diagnosis and personalized care are crucial for effective management. At WHY.EDU.VN, we strive to provide you with the knowledge and resources you need to make informed decisions about your health.
Do you have more questions about why your outer knee hurts or need further guidance on treatment options? Visit WHY.EDU.VN at 101 Curiosity Lane, Answer Town, CA 90210, United States, or contact us via Whatsapp at +1 (213) 555-0101. Our team of experts is ready to provide the answers and support you deserve. Don’t let knee pain hold you back – explore why.edu.vn today and find the solutions you’ve been searching for.