Why does your knee hurt constantly?

Knee pain is a common issue that can be caused by various underlying factors. The constant nature of your knee pain suggests a chronic condition or an ongoing issue that requires attention. While it's crucial to seek professional medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment, here are some possible reasons why you might be experiencing constant knee pain:

1. Osteoarthritis: This degenerative condition affects the cartilage in your joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Osteoarthritis is a common cause of knee pain, especially in older adults.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, including the knees. Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect other organs and systems in the body.

3. Meniscus Tear: The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that cushions the knee joint. A torn meniscus can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee. Meniscus tears can occur due to sports injuries, trauma, or degenerative changes over time.

4. Tendonitis: Tendons are tissues that connect muscles to bones. Tendonitis, or inflammation of the tendons, can cause pain in the knee, particularly around the kneecap (patellar tendonitis) or the back of the knee (popliteal tendonitis).

5. Ligament Sprain: Ligaments are tissues that connect bones together. Sprains occur when ligaments get stretched or torn, which can cause pain, swelling, and instability in the knee. Ligament sprains can happen during sports activities or accidents.

6. Baker's Cyst: A fluid-filled sac that develops behind the knee. It can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness, and may occur in association with other knee conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.

7. Plica Syndrome: Occurs when the synovial folds in the knee joint become inflamed or thickened, leading to pain and discomfort. Plica syndrome can be caused by overuse, injury, or anatomical variations.

8. Fractures: A broken or cracked bone in the knee joint can cause severe pain and other symptoms like swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Knee fractures can result from high-impact injuries or falls.

9. Infection: Rarely, constant knee pain can be a sign of an infection in the joint (septic arthritis). This is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention.

Again, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The doctor may recommend imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRI scans, to identify the root cause of your knee pain and determine the best course of action.