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Knees are complex, weight-bearing joints (junctions between 2 bones) that provide your body with flexibility, support, and a wide range of motion. Knees can be injured from trauma, arthritis, or everyday stress and strain. Knee pain is therefore a common complaint. Depending on the type and severity of joint damage, knee pain can be minor or can lead to severe discomfort and disability. There are a number of common causes for knee pain, and it is important to have an accurate diagnosis of the cause so that appropriate treatment can be undertaken. The April 18, 2007, issue of JAMA includes an article that discusses treatment options for individuals who have chronic knee pain.

RISK FACTORS

• Obesity—excess weight increases stress on the knee joints. It increases risk of accelerated osteoarthritis (degenerative collapse of the joint).
  
• Overuse—can lead to muscle fatigue and excessive loading stresses across the joint. This causes an inflammatory response (increased . . . [Full Text of this Article]

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