Trekking, a high-intensity physical activity, places significant stress directly on the knee joints. The repetitive bending of knees and navigating uneven terrain can easily overload the joints, potentially leading to damage to the menisci, tendons, and ligaments, particularly during descents.

If you experience significant knee pain and swelling after trekking, it could indicate several underlying problems:

Tendonitis is a common injury following intense physical activity like trekking. This condition manifests with pain, swelling, redness, and warmth around the knee joint. Individuals might also experience joint stiffness and difficulty moving, particularly in the morning. Tendonitis can also affect the ankles and heels after trekking.

Patellofemoral pain syndrome involves pain appearing at the front of the knee joint, specifically where the kneecap meets the thigh bone. This pain can radiate outwards and intensify during activities such as squatting, kneeling, running, cycling, or climbing stairs.

Ligament or meniscal tears can occur from sudden stops or abrupt changes in direction while descending, causing excessive twisting of the cruciate ligaments or menisci. A strong impact or a twisted knee during a fall can also lead to these injuries. Those affected experience pain, swelling, and instability in the knee joint.

Doctor Duy explains knee joint conditions to a patient. Photo: *Tam Anh General Hospital*.

When experiencing these issues, you can alleviate symptoms by:

- Rest adequately and limit movement.

- Apply cold compresses for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, to reduce swelling and inflammation.

- Use an elastic bandage to support the knee joint and reduce swelling.

- Elevate the knee above the heart when lying down to reduce edema.

If home care measures prove ineffective, or if you experience severe pain even at rest, limp, cannot walk, or feel your knee joint is loose and unstable, you should seek medical attention. A doctor can provide a direct assessment and recommend appropriate treatment. Based on your knee's condition, the doctor can also advise on suitable sports activities.

Master, Doctor, Specialist Level I Dao Duy An Duy

Orthopedic Trauma Center

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM