Taking a shower can cause one knee to hurt because the bending motion required to get in and out of the shower, combined with the warm water, can exacerbate existing knee conditions like arthritis, injuries, or inflammation, putting stress on the joint and causing pain, especially if the knee is already sensitive or has fluid buildup.
Key reasons why showering might cause knee pain:
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Bending the knee while showering puts pressure on the joint cartilage, which can be painful for people with arthritis or other degenerative joint conditions.
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Warm water can cause fluid to accumulate around the knee joint, leading to swelling and discomfort.
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The positioning needed to shower can strain surrounding muscles, contributing to knee pain.
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If you've had a previous knee injury, the stress of showering can irritate the healing tissues and cause pain.
What to do if your knee hurts while showering:
- Adjust water temperature: Use lukewarm water instead of hot, as heat can increase inflammation.
- Use a shower chair: Sitting down while showering can reduce the strain on your knees.
- Gentle stretching: Before showering, do light stretches to warm up your muscles and improve flexibility.
- Ice pack: After showering, apply an ice pack to the affected knee to reduce swelling and pain.
When to see a doctor:
- If the knee pain is severe, sudden, or accompanied by swelling, redness, or locking.
- If the pain significantly impacts your daily activities.
- If you suspect you have a serious knee injury.
