Pain in the back (posterior) portion of the knee is relatively common.
Tendon issues, cysts, injuries to the ligaments, and nerve concerns are all possible causes.
The most common ones include:
Strains or tears typically occur during exercise or other strenuous activities.
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Cutting or jumping movements are also commonly to blame for strains or tears of the gastrocnemius muscle.
Ligamentous Injuries
Injuries to several knee ligaments can also cause pain in the back of the knee.
Thecommonperonealnerveis the most frequently affected structure.
In these situations, the posterior meniscus (called the posterior horn) is usually torn.
Meniscal tears may occur gradually or as the result of a sudden twisting injury.
How to Treat Minor Back-of-Knee Pain
Many types of posterior knee pain can be treated noninvasively.
Be sure to communicate with your physician if you have any concerns about your knee pain.
Surrounding the knee are various stabilizing structures, including the joint capsule andACL,PCL,LCL, andMCLligaments.
More severe ligament and muscle tears often must be surgically repaired or reconstructed.
Meniscal tears that do not respond to conservative treatments also frequently requirea meniscectomyoperation.
After successfully reintroducing these tasks, you may be able to return to an exercise regimen gradually.
Be sure to start slowly and avoid pushing through pain.
It is important to work with your medical provider before restarting strenuous activities.
Beginning them too early may worsen your condition and prolong the pain.
Summary
A variety of conditions can cause posterior knee pain that worsens when you straighten your leg.
This includes muscle strains, ligament tears, nerve or meniscus damage, Bakers cysts, and blood clots.
Many of these issues are well treated with conservative interventions like medications, ice, and physical therapy.
Others require more invasive surgical procedures to improve the pain.
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Mount Sanai.Commonperoneal nerve dysfunction information.Updated 2024.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Meniscus tears.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Deep vein thrombosis.
