Knee Pain
What is Knee Pain?
Definition
Knee pain refers to pain in the area of the knee joint, which can be caused by injuries, degeneration, inflammation, or functional disorders. The knee is one of the most heavily loaded joints in the body.
Common Causes
- Knee osteoarthritis (gonarthrosis)
- Meniscus damage
- Ligament tear or sprain
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome
- Bursitis (inflammation of the bursa)
- Gout or rheumatic conditions
Physiological and Pathological Mechanisms
- Cartilage breakdown and narrowing of the joint space
- Inflammatory mediators within the joint space
- Muscular imbalances between the front and back of the thigh
How Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) understands Knee Pain
In TCM, the knee is influenced by the Liver and Kidney meridians. Cartilage and tendons are nourished by the Liver; bones by the Kidney. Bi syndrome due to cold-dampness is a common pattern.
Treatment Principles
Acupuncture
Local points (SP 9, ST 36, GB 34) and distal points strengthen the Liver and Kidney, resolve obstructions, and reduce inflammation.
Tuina Treatment
Massage of the thigh musculature, mobilisation of the knee joint, and treatment of ligaments and tendons.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Herbal formulas to nourish tendons and cartilage and reduce dampness.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Weight reduction, low-impact endurance exercise (cycling, swimming), quadriceps strengthening, heat treatment.
When to See a Doctor Immediately
Warning Signs
- Severe swelling following trauma
- Locking of the joint (knee cannot be fully extended)
- Fever and redness of the knee joint
- Sudden loss of strength
When to Contact a Clinic
In the event of acute trauma with severe swelling or instability, please seek a doctor immediately.