Knee Grinding During Exercising

The knee is placed under a great deal of stress during exercise, especially weight-bearing exercises. When the cartilage or menisci within your knee is damaged, you may experience grinding between your bones. Treatment includes rest, ice and strength exercises. If grinding persists and is accompanied with pain, consult your physician.

Cartilage

Cartilage is located within your knee between your thighbone and shinbone, and underneath your kneecap or patella. This cartilage is a shock absorber for your knee and, along with synovial fluid, makes knee movements smooth. Damage and degeneration, however, can lead to pain, grinding and loss of knee function. Because cartilage lacks good direct blood supply, it does not heal well once damage occurs; and your age, fitness level and overall health play significant roles in the health of your knees and cartilage.

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome or PFPS is a general term used to describe pain on the front of your knee and is when the inside of your kneecap becomes irritated. It is also known as patellofemoral disorder, runner's knee and chondromalacia. This irritation leads to fraying or deterioration of your kneecap's underlying cartilage- resulting in grinding. According to a 2009 "Australian Journal of Physiotherapy" article, weak hip muscles are associated with patellofemoral pain syndrome and may contribute to the development of PFPS. Additional risk factors include muscle imbalances, wide hips, knocked knees and flatfeet.

Arthritis

Osteoarthritis is also called degenerative joint disease and is when the cartilage in your knees degenerate or wears away. This usually happens due to years of wear and tear, but previous knee injuries such as meniscal tears and a family history can make you more prone to osteoarthritis. Another form of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis and is when your body attacks the cartilage in your joints. As your knees lose cartilage, the bones begin to rub together, causing friction and grinding. Overtime, boney projections or osteophytes can develop increasing grinding and further impairing knee function, according to a 2000 article in the "American Family Physician" journal.

Treatment

Rest or modify your exercise routine to reduce grinding. For example, swim or bike instead of walking or running. These low-impact activities will place less stress on your knees. To decrease inflammation and pain, ice, wear a compression wrap and elevate your leg above your heart. Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may also help alleviate pain associated with grinding, but will not stop grinding. If you do not experience relief with these treatments, physical therapy, strength exercises and stretches are highly recommended. Since knee osteoarthritis cannot be cured, a knee replacement may be necessary for advanced cases. Consult your physician about other treatments such as glucosamine pills, prescription NSAIDS and injections such as corticosteroids and viscosupplementation, which helps lubricate your knee to decrease friction.