Differential Diagnosis for Lateral Knee Pain when Bending and Driving
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Iliotibial (IT) band syndrome: This condition is characterized by inflammation of the iliotibial band, a ligament that runs down the outside of the thigh from the hip to the knee. It is a common cause of lateral knee pain, especially in individuals who participate in activities that involve repetitive knee bending, such as cycling or running. The pain is typically exacerbated by activities like bending and driving, which involve flexion of the knee.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Lateral meniscal tear: A tear in the lateral meniscus, which is a cartilage structure in the knee joint, can cause pain on the lateral side of the knee. This type of injury can occur from a sudden twisting motion or from wear and tear over time.
- Lateral collateral ligament (LCL) sprain: The LCL is a ligament that connects the femur (thigh bone) to the fibula (outer lower leg bone). A sprain of this ligament can cause pain on the lateral side of the knee, especially with activities that involve bending or twisting.
- Popliteus tendonitis: The popliteus tendon is a small tendon that connects the popliteus muscle to the lateral femoral condyle. Inflammation of this tendon can cause lateral knee pain, especially with activities that involve bending or twisting.
- Do Not Miss diagnoses
- Osteonecrosis of the femoral condyle: This is a condition where the bone tissue in the femoral condyle (the rounded end of the femur) dies due to a lack of blood supply. It can cause severe pain on the lateral side of the knee and can be debilitating if left untreated.
- Septic arthritis: This is a serious infection of the joint that can cause severe pain, swelling, and stiffness. It requires prompt medical attention to prevent long-term damage to the joint.
- Tumor: Although rare, a tumor in the lateral knee region can cause pain and should not be missed.
- Rare diagnoses
- Peroneal nerve compression: Compression of the peroneal nerve, which runs down the lateral side of the knee, can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the foot and ankle.
- Fabella syndrome: The fabella is a small bone in the lateral knee region that can cause pain and inflammation if it becomes irritated or inflamed.
- Ganglion cyst: A ganglion cyst is a benign lump that can form on the lateral side of the knee, causing pain and stiffness.