“Exterior knee pain and less than 140 degree flexation?”

Need way more information; when did the pain start? What seemed to bring it on? Is it assoiated. with walking, stair-climbing, running? Or any new exercise routine? ITB syndrome is also called "runners' knee" and is a simple inflammation of the iliotibial band where it attaches on lateral (outer side) aspect of knee. Have you tried ice, steroid ointments, Arnica gel? Most people over the age of 30 do not have 140 degs of flexion unless they are ballet dancers or pro athletes/competitive runners. Have you considered "RICE": Rest; Ice, Compression (wrap), Elevation (rest).

Mark l. Mudano, M.D.

This could be a couple of things and I will presume there was no trauma. If there is pain directly over tendon and becomes worse with flexion good be simple tendonitis. Even with rest this can occur for several months. There are multiple bursa on the lateral knee which will be painful with contact but generally not worse with flexion. A small tear of your meniscus can give you mild tenderness, decreased flexion. As years get larger catching, locking and swelling occur. I would try the usual of decreasing flexion exercises, more routine ice, massage, stretching and maybe a trial of Advil/Aleve routinely for 7-10 days. If no improvement would see Orthopedic doctor for exam,radiographs and possible MRI. Good luck.

It sounds like you may have iliotibial band tendinitis. Ice, stretching, and activity modification typically help. Reputable on-line medical sites will have additional information on IT band tendinitis.

Good luck,

Dr. L