Sharp Knee Pain

Sharp knee pain is the most common of all overuse injuries to the knee. Fortunately, according to the US Institutes of Health, "many causes of knee pain, especially those related to overuse or physical activity, respond well to self-care."

Likely Cause

• Sharp knee pain is usually due to patellar tendonitis, often referred to as "jumper's knee." According to Nikhil N. Verma M.D., "This condition occurs when the tendon that connects the patella (kneecap) to the tibia (shinbone) becomes inflamed."

Home Treatment

• Use the RICE method to treat jumper's knee. Rest the knee as much as possible (R), ice it for max 20 minutes at a time with 60-minute breaks (I), use a knee brace or bandage to compress it (C) and keep it elevated whenever you lie or sit down (E).

Prevention/Solution

• Keep the muscles around your knee strong and flexible. Always get a good warm-up before you start playing your sport. Use good athletic shoes and consider the use of orthotics.

Iliotibial Band Syndrome

• Your sharp knee pain may be due to Iliotibial band syndrome. According to the Mayoclinic.com, "A sharp, burning pain on the outer side of the knee that usually begins after longer distance runs" is a sign of this condition.

Considerations

• See a doctor if your knee pain does not improve after a week of home treatment, it gets worse, your knee is very swollen, you get a fever or you cannot put weight on the leg.