10 Knee Conditions More Common in Males
10 knee conditions that are more common in males due to differences in anatomy, hormones, or activity patterns. Here are some knee conditions that are more prevalent in males:
1. Osgood-Schlatter Disease
- Why More Common in Males: This condition is more frequently seen in active adolescent boys, especially during growth spurts. It is caused by inflammation of the growth plate at the tibial tuberosity (just below the kneecap) due to repetitive stress from activities like running or jumping.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, and tenderness below the kneecap, especially during or after physical activity.
2. Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper’s Knee)
- Why More Common in Males: Males, particularly those involved in sports like basketball, volleyball, or soccer, are more prone to this condition due to higher levels of physical activity and stress on the patellar tendon.
- Symptoms: Pain and tenderness at the base of the kneecap, especially during jumping or running.
3. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries
- Why More Common in Males: While ACL injuries are common in both genders, males are more likely to engage in high-impact sports (e.g., football, soccer, basketball) that increase the risk of ACL tears.
- Symptoms: Sudden pain, swelling, and instability in the knee, often accompanied by a “popping” sound at the time of injury.
4. Osteochondritis Dissecans
- Why More Common in Males: This condition, where a piece of bone or cartilage in the knee joint loses blood supply and breaks off, is more common in males, particularly adolescents involved in sports.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, and locking or catching of the knee joint.
5. Gout
- Why More Common in Males: Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It is more common in males due to higher uric acid levels and dietary factors.
- Symptoms: Sudden, severe pain, redness, and swelling in the knee joint, often at night.
6. Septic Arthritis
- Why More Common in Males: Males may be at a slightly higher risk due to higher rates of trauma or injuries that can introduce bacteria into the knee joint.
- Symptoms: Severe pain, swelling, redness, and fever, often with limited range of motion.
7. Meniscus Tears
- Why More Common in Males: Males are more likely to engage in sports or physical activities that involve twisting or sudden movements, increasing the risk of meniscus tears.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, stiffness, and a sensation of the knee “locking” or “catching.”
8. Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)
- Why More Common in Males: Males who participate in running or cycling are more prone to ITBS due to tightness or overuse of the iliotibial band.
- Symptoms: Pain on the outer side of the knee, especially during activity.
9. Plica Syndrome
- Why More Common in Males: Males who engage in repetitive knee movements (e.g., cycling, running) are more likely to develop inflammation of the synovial plica, a fold in the knee joint lining.
- Symptoms: Pain, swelling, and a catching sensation in the knee.
10. Referred Pain from Hip Conditions
- Why More Common in Males: Conditions like Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease (a hip disorder affecting blood flow to the femoral head) are more common in young boys and can cause referred pain in the knee.
- Symptoms: Hip or knee pain, limping, and reduced range of motion.
