What Causes Knee Pain in Females ?
Introduction
Knee pain is one of the most frequently reported musculoskeletal problems among women, affecting daily activities, mobility, and long-term joint health. Understanding what causes knee pain in females is crucial for timely intervention and prevention of chronic discomfort. Women are biologically and hormonally predisposed to certain knee conditions, making them more vulnerable than men to specific types of joint issues.
At AtPhysio, with centers in Ghaziabad and New Delhi, our team specializes in treating various causes of knee pain with targeted physiotherapy programs. In this article, we dive deep into what causes knee pain in females, common risk factors, and the best ways to manage and prevent it.
Anatomical and Biomechanical Differences in Women
Before exploring specific conditions, it’s important to understand why women are more susceptible to knee problems :
- Wider Pelvis : A broader pelvic structure creates a larger Q-angle, which affects how the thigh bone meets the knee joint, leading to increased stress.
- Hormonal Factors : Estrogen and relaxin can affect ligament strength and flexibility, making joints less stable.
- Lower Muscle Mass : Women generally have less muscle mass in the thighs and hips, affecting joint stability and movement control.
These differences contribute significantly to what causes knee pain in females, especially in athletic or physically active populations.
Common Conditions That Cause Knee Pain in Women
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Also known as “runner’s knee,” this condition causes pain in the front of the knee or around the kneecap. It is common in teenage girls and active young women.
- Symptoms :
- Dull ache around the kneecap
- Pain during stairs, squatting, or prolonged sitting
- Dull ache around the kneecap
- Why it affects women : A greater Q-angle and weaker thigh muscles make the kneecap track improperly, leading to irritation.
Osteoarthritis
Post-menopausal women are especially prone to osteoarthritis of the knee due to hormonal shifts and age-related wear.
- Symptoms :
- Stiffness and swelling
- Pain that worsens with activity
- Joint creaking or grinding sounds
- Stiffness and swelling
Lower estrogen levels are thought to accelerate cartilage breakdown, making this a significant contributor to what causes knee pain in females as they age.
ACL Injuries
Women are four to eight times more likely than men to suffer an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear, especially during sports or sudden movements.
- Symptoms :
- A popping sound at the time of injury
- Immediate swelling
- Feeling of instability in the knee
- A popping sound at the time of injury
Contributing factors include hormonal variations, joint alignment, and delayed muscle response.
Meniscus Tears
The meniscus is the cartilage that cushions the knee. Twisting or turning quickly can lead to a tear, particularly in women engaged in household work, yoga, or sports.
- Symptoms :
- Sharp pain along the knee line
- Swelling and stiffness
- Difficulty bending or straightening the knee
- Sharp pain along the knee line
Bursitis
Bursitis occurs when small fluid-filled sacs (bursae) become inflamed, often due to repetitive kneeling or pressure on the joint.
- Symptoms :
- Swelling and tenderness near the kneecap
- Warmth or redness
- Pain that worsens with activity
- Swelling and tenderness near the kneecap
Frequent floor chores or yoga postures may explain what causes knee pain in females who manage household tasks daily.
IT Band Syndrome
The iliotibial (IT) band runs from the hip to the shin and can rub against the outer knee during repeated movements like running or cycling.
- Symptoms :
- Lateral (outer) knee pain
- Pain aggravated by repetitive motion
- Lateral (outer) knee pain
Obesity and Weight Gain
Being overweight significantly increases pressure on the knee joint. Women with a wider pelvis and soft tissue laxity are at greater risk.
- Consequences :
- Accelerated cartilage degeneration
- Increased inflammatory markers
- Higher risk of developing arthritis
- Accelerated cartilage degeneration
Managing weight is one way to address what causes knee pain in females, especially during and after menopause.
Hormonal Fluctuations
Some women report worsening knee pain during specific phases of the menstrual cycle due to estrogen levels affecting ligament elasticity. Pregnancy-related hormonal changes can also cause temporary joint instability.
When to See a Physiotherapist
Understanding what causes knee pain in females should prompt timely professional care if symptoms persist. See a physiotherapist if you experience :
- Pain lasting longer than a week
- Swelling, redness, or warmth
- Trouble bending or straightening the knee
- Pain that interferes with walking or sleep
How AtPhysio Helps
At AtPhysio, we offer holistic treatment plans based on each patient’s specific needs. Here’s how we manage knee pain in females :
Detailed Assessment
- Movement and posture evaluation
- Muscle strength and joint alignment analysis
- Gait and balance testing
Personalized Treatment Plans
- Strength training for glutes, quads, and hamstrings
- Flexibility exercises for tight structures
- Proprioception and stability enhancement
Modalities for Pain Relief
- Manual therapy
- TENS and ultrasound
- Ice and heat therapy
- Dry needling and taping
We also help women through postpartum recovery and post-surgical rehab, addressing changes that often lead to knee discomfort.
Preventive Tips for Women
Preventing what causes knee pain in females involves proactive lifestyle adjustments :
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Strengthen lower limb and core muscles
- Avoid high heels and wear proper footwear
- Use proper technique during exercises and daily activities
- Stay active, but avoid overuse or sudden movements
Conclusion
Knee pain in females is a multifactorial issue driven by anatomy, hormones, lifestyle, and age-related changes. Identifying what causes knee pain in females allows for early intervention, preventing chronic damage and improving quality of life.
At AtPhysio, we are committed to helping women of all ages live pain-free, active lives. If you’re experiencing ongoing knee pain, visit us in Vasundhara, Ghaziabad or C.R. Park, New Delhi, or schedule a consultation at www.atphysio.in.
