What Causes Tightness In Knees?

Posted on Thu, 13 Nov 2014

Question: Hello again, Dr. XXXXXXX I am not sure I understand yet (since I still have over 1 week before visiting the orthopedic doctor) why I have recently started experiencing the tightness in the back of my knee when I stand up. Is this specifically caused by the moderate suprapatellar and infrapatellar effusion (that may need to be drained), or caused by something else (whereby the tightness feels like a painless cramp)? I usually find that if I shake my leg it goes away mostly until I sit down again the next time. Is this consistent with something other than the effusion that will go away? Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Saurabh Gupta (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Could be due to reactive spasm.

Detailed Answer:
Hello Sir,

Thanks for your query again.

Tightness in the back of my knee when you stand up could be due to reactive spasm caused by suprapatellar and infrapatellar effusion. Apply crepe bandage compression to reduce the effusion and cramp.

If the effusion increases, it may need to be drained.

Wishing you good health...

Warm regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Saurabh Gupta (18 minutes later)

Thank you. Advil feels better, but I sense a feeling off a band around my knee.

Answered by Dr. Saurabh Gupta (57 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
You are most welcome.

Detailed Answer:
Hello sir,

Do stretching exercises, hot fomentation and apply crape bandage to relieve your tightness and band feeling.You can take advil as and when required.

Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar