Knees do a lot of work for us: they help us walk around, go for a run, climb in our cars, stand up, and sit down.
Even simply getting out of bed first thing in the morning requires help from your knees!
But for millions of people, these everyday activities are much more difficult due to knee pain. If you’re reading this article, odds are you are one of those people.
But what causes this frustrating and often debilitating condition? And, more importantly, what can you do to alleviate it?
In this article, we’ll dive into the common causes of knee tightness and stiffness, exploring the complexity of muscle stiffness, joint disorders, physical activity, and other factors that could be contributing to this condition.
We’ll also discuss the expert diagnosis and treatment options available at Centers for Knee Pain, a leading provider of comprehensive knee care.
Common Causes of Knee Pain
While this condition affects many, many people, the causes of knee pain can vary from person to person. Here are 5 of the most common causes:
Muscle Stiffness
One of the primary causes of knee stiffness is muscle tightness, particularly in the quadriceps. The quadriceps muscles can be found on the front of the thigh and play a crucial role in straightening and stabilizing the knee joint.
However, when these muscles become tight, they can pull the patella, or kneecap, out of alignment, leading to stiffness and discomfort[1].
Research has shown that muscle stiffness in the quadriceps is a common feature of knee osteoarthritis. Knee OA is a degenerative joint disease affecting millions worldwide[1]. Studies have even found that patients with knee osteoarthritis tend to have stiffer quadriceps muscles than those without the condition[1]!
And speaking of OA…
Joint Disorders
Joint disorders, like osteoarthritis, are another major contributor to knee stiffness. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that causes the cartilage in the knee joint to break down, leading to bone-on-bone contact and stiffness.
Osteoarthritis isn’t the only joint disorder that can cause knee stiffness. Other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis and meniscal tears, can also contribute to stiffness and discomfort in the knee.
Physical Activity and Injury
Physical activity and injury are also common causes of knee stiffness. Overuse or repeated strain on the knee joint can lead to muscle tightness and stiffness. This is common in athletes who participate in high-impact sports like running or jumping[3].
Those who perform incorrect or incomplete warm-up or cool-down routines while exercising may also experience knee stiffness, as can injuries such as ligament sprains or muscle strains[3].
Neuromuscular Factors
“Neuromuscular factors” are based on the muscles and nervous system working together. These factors, such as muscle activation and tendon dynamics, also play a crucial role in knee stiffness.
Research has shown that how muscles activate and tendons respond to movement can affect knee joint stiffness[3].
Studies have found that some people with knee osteoarthritis tend to have altered muscle activation patterns, and these patterns can contribute to stiffness and instability in the knee joint[3].
Age and Physical Characteristics
Age and physical characteristics, such as muscle bulk and body mass index (BMI), can also impact knee stiffness.
As we age, our muscles naturally lose mass and strength, leading to stiffness and weakness in the knee joint.
Additionally, people with a higher BMI may be more likely to experience knee stiffness due to the increased stress and strain on the knee joint.
Other Potential Causes of Knee Stiffness
Other potential causes of knee stiffness include:
- Deep fascia stiffness: The deep fascia is a layer of connective tissue surrounding the muscles and joints. When this tissue becomes stiff, it can contribute to knee stiffness and discomfort[5].
- Poor posture or biomechanics: Unusual movement patterns or poor posture can put additional strain on the knee joint, leading to stiffness and discomfort[6].
Treatment Options at Centers for Knee Pain
At Centers for Knee Pain, our team of expert physicians and physical therapists understand the complexities of knee stiffness and tightness.
We offer a range of treatment options, including:
- Physical therapy: Our physical therapists will work with you to develop a customized exercise program to improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the knee joint.
- Knee injections: We offer a range of injection therapies, including corticosteroids and hyaluronic acid, which help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
- Minimally invasive procedures: Our physicians specialize in minimally invasive procedures, such as genicular artery embolization to treat underlying joint disorders. Learn more about this procedure by watching the video below:
Conclusion
Knee stiffness and tightness can be debilitating, but there is hope. Now that you are familiar with the common causes of this condition, you can feel empowered to take the first step towards an improved quality of life.
At Centers for Knee Pain, we are committed to providing comprehensive and patient-centered care for knee issues. If you’re experiencing persistent knee stiffness or tightness, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule a consultation. Our team of experts will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to get you back on your feet.
Don’t let knee stiffness hold you back – take control of your knee health and start living the life you deserve!
Ready to take the first step towards alleviating your knee stiffness and tightness? Schedule a consultation with Centers for Knee Pain today!
Still unsure if treatment is right for you? Take our FREE knee quiz to learn more!
Citations
- Chang, T., Zhu, Y., Li, Z., Li, F., Li, Y., Guo, J., Wang, X., & Zhang, Z. (2022). Modulation in the Stiffness of Specific Muscles of the Quadriceps in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis and Their Relationship With Functional Ability. Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology, 9. doi: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.781672
- Vittala, G., Dinata, P., Ardaswari, P., Wijaya, T., Herlambang, L., Gede, D., & Kamayoga, A. (2024). Physical therapy management for muscle tightness in a surfing athlete: a case report study. Physical Therapy Journal of Indonesia. doi: 10.51559/ptji.v5i1.171
- Sartori, M., Maculan, M., Pizzolato, C., Reggiani, M., & Farina, D. (2015). Modeling and simulating the neuromuscular mechanisms regulating ankle and knee joint stiffness during human locomotion. Journal of Neurophysiology, 114(4), 2509-2527. doi: 10.1152/jn.00989.2014
- Such, C., Unsworth, A., Wright, V., & Dowson, D. (1975). Quantitative study of stiffness in the knee joint. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, 34(4), 286-291. doi: 10.1136/ard.34.4.286
- Wilke, J., Schwiete, C., & Behringer, M. (2022). Effects of Maximal Eccentric Exercise on Deep Fascia Stiffness of the Knee Flexors: A Pilot Study using Shear-Wave Elastography. Journal of Sports Science & Medicine, 21(3), 419-425. doi: 10.52082/jssm.2022.419
- Tateuchi H. (2019). Gait- and postural-alignment-related prognostic factors for hip and knee osteoarthritis: Toward the prevention of osteoarthritis progression. Physical therapy research, 22(1), 31–37. https://doi.org/10.1298/ptr.R0003