Knee pain can arise from a multitude of causes. However, chronic knee pain, meaning pain that has persisted for a long time, is most commonly attributed to various types of arthritis. The most frequently encountered types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and traumatic arthritis.

* Osteoarthritis (Degenerative Arthritis): This condition occurs when the cartilage covering the ends of the knee bones gradually wears down and deteriorates over time. As the cartilage is lost, the bones forming the joint surface begin to rub against each other. This leads to knee pain, stiffness, and roughening of the joint surfaces. Its incidence generally increases after the age of 50, and factors such as family history, obesity, and O-leg or X-leg deformities can accelerate its development.

* Inflammatory Arthritis: Chronic inflammatory joint diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or gout can cause swelling and inflammation in the cartilage tissue covering the joint. As the disease progresses, the cartilage wears away, and joint mobility becomes restricted.

* Traumatic Arthritis: This can develop following a severe knee injury. Conditions such as a bad fall, a heavy blow to the knee, or meniscus surgery can cause damage to the joint. If these injuries are not treated appropriately or if excessive load is placed on the joint, the cartilage wears down over time. Knee fractures or severe ligament tears can also destroy the articular cartilage, leading to knee pain and loss of function.