Squatting could be part of the exercise, so it should not be the reason to cause pain in the knees. But sometimes, due to inappropriate posture or some other underlying reason it may result in pain in knees. So, knee pain when squatting could be the reason for some underlying issues. You need to consult a doctor and discuss your condition.
Reasons of Knee Pain When Squatting
Here are given reasons for knee pain when squatting.
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Patellofemoral Syndrome
In patellofemoral syndrome, movement issues and misalignment linked with the kneecap occur. Knee pain when squatting can also occur due to wear and tear of cartilage with the passage of time. Tenderness, redness, and clicking sensation could be the possible reasons behind common symptoms of a runner’s knee. Inflammation and knee pain after squats can occur due to the lack of synovial fluid and pressure passing through the joint.
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Iliotibial Band Syndrome
As it is known that IT band is tissue that moves along the length of the upper leg from the hip to the knee. IT bands have special importance as they support in bending the knee. Inflammation of the IT band can occur due to rubbing on the outer knee which results in pain especially during squatting. Runners are top of the list who get affected by IT band syndrome. Moreover, people who are not used to stretching their knees before exercises are also prone to face this type of injury.
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Weak Glutes
It is reported that most people suffer from knee pain when bending due to weak glutes. The glutes play an important role in balancing the forces equally and supporting the joints to move easily. If the glutes are weak then the knee cannot work properly and result in knee pain after and during squatting.
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Muscle Imbalances
Muscle imbalances could be the reason behind pain in the knee when squatting among adults. Muscle imbalances mostly occur due to tightening and weakening of surrounding muscles. In case of muscle imbalance, you may face instability, inflammation and increased risk of injury to the joints.
Diagnosis of Knee Pain When Squatting
Pain care clinic Fort Worth specializes in helping the people to find the exact cause of the source of their pain and making a plan to get rid of it. If you are facing persistent knee pain when squatting, it is crucial to perform a proper diagnosis from a physical therapist or qualified healthcare professional. Some common diagnostic techniques are as follows.
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Physical Examination
A physician will assess your flexibility, mobility, range of motion, squatting mechanics, and muscle strength to find potential imbalances and issues.
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Imaging Tests
MRI, X-rays or ultrasound could be used by orthopedic surgeons to make a detailed image of the joint of the knee, guiding to rule out knee arthritis or meniscus tears.
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Gait Analysis
A gait analysis can find any abnormalities in running and walking patterns that might contribute to your knee pain when bending.
Home Remedies That Will Help You With Knee Pain
Pain medicine clinic suggests that it is very important to visit a doctor in case of any knee damage to rule out serious conditions and fractures. It can be treated with home remedies that could help with knee pain during squatting. When you suffer from pain you would need to change your daily routine and high impact activities. Try to make a plan for your daily activities.
- Using a heating pad could help you alleviate the joint arthritis and stiffness.
- Professional massage therapists can offer relief in the muscles surrounding your joints as well as help prevent future injuries by relieving stress.
- If you are able to rest your knee for at least 20 minutes at a time, apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel to it. Use an elastic bandage or wrap around it to prevent swelling.
- Elevate your leg so that it is above your heart if possible.
- You may find relief from your discomfort by taking over-the-counter drugs (OTC). Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) are excellent pain-relievers options, as they decrease both pain and inflammation.
Recovery
- In case of facing knee injury during squatting, the recovery time will rely on the severity of the injury and the type of treatment you choose.
- You may feel better by taking rest and giving the best treatment at home.
- Physical therapy sessions are a very good choice to deal with muscle imbalance.
- Surgery may require several months to heal.
Conclusion
In case you experience knee pain when squatting, you may have a knee pain condition that is likely to cause mild knee pain that you are not experiencing on a day-to-day basis. As a result, you should consult a physician to find out what is causing the pain. It is the responsibility of Pain medicine clinics to identify the root cause of knee pain and recommend lifestyle changes that include the ones mentioned above and more.
