Understanding Knee Appearance and Pain
At the age of 21, I've been experiencing significant discomfort in both of my knees since I turned 18. I have hypermobility in several joints, including my elbows, left shoulder, knees, fingers, wrists, ankles, hips, and potentially even my toes. It seems I may have inherited a condition related to joint hypermobility from my mother, although I have not yet received a formal diagnosis. Currently, my daily regimen includes 30mg of Adderall, 30mg of Prozac, 150mg of Bupropion (Wellbutrin), a vitamin D supplement at 50mcg (2000 IU), and 75mcg of L-Synthroid. It's important to note that while thyroid issues can impact joint health, my recent lab tests indicated my thyroid levels are within the normal range based on my current medications. Returning to the issues at hand: my kneecaps have noticeably appeared angled outward for as long as I can remember. I tend to position at least one foot inward for comfort when standing. This outward appearance is especially prominent when I sit with my knees bent. Is this something typical?
Answers (1)
9/6/2025, 2:20:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing significant discomfort in your knees, which may be related to your joint hypermobility and the noticeable outward angle of your kneecaps. While I can't provide a diagnosis, I can offer some insights and practical steps that may help you manage your symptoms.
Key Points:
- Joint hypermobility can lead to discomfort and misalignment of the joints, which might explain the appearance of your kneecaps and the discomfort you're experiencing.
- It's important to focus on supportive measures to strengthen your knees and improve their function.
Explanation: Hypermobility can make the joints more prone to pain and injury because the ligaments that support the joints may not hold them as securely as in individuals without hypermobility. The outward angle of your kneecaps (patellar maltracking) can lead to pain, especially during activities that put stress on the knees, like walking or sitting with bent knees. It is not uncommon for individuals with hypermobility to seek comfort by adjusting their posture, but doing so can create imbalances and further discomfort over time.
Next Steps:
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Focus on Strengthening Exercises: Engage in low-impact strengthening exercises, particularly those targeting the quadriceps (the muscles at the front of your thighs). Stronger quadriceps can help stabilize your kneecap. Exercises like straight leg raises, wall sits, and leg presses can be beneficial. Aim to do these exercises a few times a week.
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Practice Flexibility and Stability: Incorporate stretching routines to improve flexibility in your legs and hips. Additionally, consider balance exercises to enhance stability, which can be helpful for hypermobility. Activities like yoga or Pilates can be beneficial.
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Limit Activities that Increase Pain: Pay attention to movements or activities that exacerbate your knee discomfort and try to limit them as much as possible.
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Use Supportive Footwear: Make sure you are wearing shoes that provide proper arch support and cushioning. This can make a substantial difference in your overall joint alignment and knee comfort.
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Apply Ice and Rest When Needed: If your knees are sore, especially after activity, applying ice for 15-20 minutes can help reduce inflammation and pain.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your knee pain, appearance, or functionality. If you notice worsening symptoms or new concerns, consider seeking additional medical advice.
These steps can help manage your symptoms and improve your knee function over time. Remember, it's important to listen to your body and adjust your activities based on your comfort levels. Let me know if you have further questions or need more specific recommendations.
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