What should I do??

For the past few years, I have been having this bad knee pain when I walk. It constantly feels like theres a "bubble" so when when I walk there is a lot of pressure and feels almost like things are sliding/grinding against eachother. It didnt used to happen as much, but lately it does all of the time. So it prevents me from wanting to walk around or run etc. My dad told me he had the same thing almost, but he got surgery on his. I would just like an idea of what it could be so I know what I should do.

[twehner5]

I'm sorry you're having this problem at such a young age. Have you played sports? If so, what sports? I'm just wondering if you could have some how torn your meniscus, which is the cartilege that cushions your knee joint.

You are awfully young to have arthritis, and I think of that when I hear "grinding." What kind of surgery did your dad have? Was it arthroscopic? Was it successful? Was it due to an injury or a hereditary problem?

Have you tried ice on your knee or taking OTC anti-inflammatories taken at regular intervals for a while to see if that helps? Without knowing your lifestyle, it's hard to know the best advice to give to you. Since you mentioned "walking and running" sort of in general terms, it makes me assume you are not playing any sports.

Since this has been going on for a few years, I have to wonder 1) if it's not too terribly painful, but more annoying, 2) if it's swelling ever, and 3) if you should go to the doctor???
A few years is too long and if it was going to go away on its own, it more than likely would have. I think you should get a professional opinion. GO TO THE DOCTOR !  :)  Good luck and take care.

[sunshine2393]

Yes i used to play sports and my dad had it for a ruptered acl
And its more pain than annoying its just like theres a huge bubble in there
Idk if youve ever popped your knuckles but if you ever have and ot doesnt pop just grinds and hurts
Thats sort of wht the grinding feels like
but i will go see a doctor soon i hope :)
Thankyou

[twehner5]

I can't wait to hear what the doctor says to you ;)

I am only 47 but had a total knee replacement scheduled for this Thursday (canceled due to losing my insurance....sigh).  I know knee pain and don't want to see you where I am when you are my age.  I remain as active as I can and exercise avidly.  Today, I managed 2 hours and 15 minutes, but I feel every hour and minute of it  :(

Good luck !

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Well, without a physical examination and probably a few tests it would be difficult to point out the cause of your knee discomfort. The possibility of a condition would also vary with age and the type of physical activities that one indulges in. A few possibilities include injuries like tendon tears, fractures, loose bodies, meniscal tears; inflammations like bursitis, tendonitis, arthritis; iliotibial band syndrome, patellar dislocation, chondromalacia etc. It would suggest consulting an orthopedician for an evaluation. After a cause is diagnosed, it can be managed accordingly.
Hope this helps.

Take care!

[sunshine2393]

Thanks both of you
I do try to keep exercising but sometimes it hurts too bad
i am going to see a doctor this week or the next hopefully and ill let y'all know:)
thanks for the advice
Being 18 and already having so many problems *****

[sunshine2393]

That said s u c k s lol