Im having sharp pains in my knees and ankles, any idea what it is?

Question

I've been having sharp pains in my knees and ankles when I walk since the beginning of January. I really haven't been to a doctor for it or anything. My parents suggested that maybe its stress but I don't think so. It's really hard to walk and do PE. What do you think it is, and how can it be fixed? Im 13, so I don't think it's because of old age or anything...

I would call it cramps instead of sharp pains actually...

Answer 1

If you have gained a lot of height in the past year, it can take the tendons a little bit of time to catch up with the bone growth -- a large increase in height stretches the tendons more than they are used to. People who have long legs tend to have this problem more than people with shorter limbs. Tendons and muscles can also tighten if you have suddenly increased the amount of exercise.

When tendons are tight from constant tension, the muscles use up all of the available electrolytes (mostly calcium and magnesium), that enable them to relax. When this happens, the muscles contract and cause a cramp.

Regardless of the cause, cramps can be avoided by doing three things: (1) stretching the muscles that are cramping; (2) increase the amount of calcium and Magnesium in your diet by taking a supplement; and (3) increase the amount of water you drink. Tell your PE teacher about the pains and ask them if they can recommend some good stretches to help with the problem.

Answer 2

Hi I also have chronic pain, I have a condition called Fibromyalgia- I have severe chronic pain, all over my body. I totally understand about how your skin hurts to touch. Allodynia. The sharp pains in your chest could be pluerisy- just that the fluid between the pleura in your lungs is dry, and when your breath in and out it rubs, causing pain. Or it could be costochondritis, inflamation between the ribs. If parent approves, maybe anti-inflamatories could help. Also moist heat aplied to sore areas. Or if you have fevers it could be something else. Maybe Lyme Disease. When are you due for your annual physical?(check up). Ask your Mom to bring you to your doctor if symptoms persist, for no one can ever diagnose you sight unseen. Good Luck kiddo. Lennamarie