Knee Pain: Common Causes, Warning Signs & Treatment

Knee pain is a common problem that can affect people of all ages. It may develop after an injury, due to repeated strain, arthritis or gradual wear and tear of the knee joint.

Some cases improve with rest and basic care. However, persistent pain, swelling, difficulty walking or knee instability may need medical evaluation.

What Causes Knee Pain?

Knee pain can have several causes. Some of the most common include:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis develops when the protective cartilage in the knee gradually wears down.

It may cause:

• Pain while walking
• Knee stiffness
• Swelling
• Reduced movement
• Pain after prolonged activity

It is more common with increasing age, although previous injuries and excess stress on the joint can also contribute.

Knee Injuries

Sports, falls or sudden twisting movements can injure structures inside the knee.

Common injuries include:

• Ligament injuries
• Meniscus tears
• Muscle or tendon strain
• Fractures
• Kneecap injuries

Sudden pain after an injury should be assessed if the person cannot walk normally or put weight on the affected leg.

Tendon and Soft-Tissue Problems

Repeated movements can irritate tendons and tissues around the knee.

This may cause pain during activities such as running, climbing stairs or getting up from a chair.

Bursitis

Small fluid-filled sacs around the knee help reduce friction. When these become inflamed, pain and swelling may occur.

Other Joint Conditions

Inflammatory arthritis, gout and other joint conditions may also cause knee pain, stiffness or swelling.

Patients with persistent joint problems can consult the Orthopaedics Department at Westin Hospitals for evaluation.

What Are the Common Symptoms of Knee Problems?

Symptoms vary depending on the underlying cause.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain during walking
• Pain while climbing stairs
• Knee swelling
• Stiffness
• Difficulty bending or straightening the knee
• Clicking or popping sensations
• Weakness or instability
• Difficulty standing after sitting for a long time

Some people may also notice that the knee feels as though it may give way.

Why Does My Knee Hurt While Walking?

Knee pain while walking can result from arthritis, an old injury, muscle weakness, tendon irritation or excessive stress on the joint.

The location of pain can sometimes provide useful information, but it is not enough to diagnose the problem.

Pain that repeatedly limits normal walking should be evaluated rather than ignored.

When Is Knee Pain a Warning Sign?

Seek medical attention if knee pain is accompanied by:

• Severe swelling
• Inability to bear weight
• Significant pain after an injury
• Visible deformity
• Knee locking
• Repeated giving way
• Redness and warmth around the joint
• Fever along with a swollen knee
• Pain that keeps getting worse

Sudden severe pain following an accident or sports injury may require prompt assessment.

How Is Knee Pain Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually begins with a discussion about:

• When the pain started
• Previous injuries
• Activities that worsen the pain
• Swelling or stiffness
• Difficulty walking

The doctor may then examine knee movement, stability and areas of tenderness.

Depending on the symptoms, investigations may include an X-ray, MRI or other imaging.

Westin Hospitals provides Radiology and diagnostic support when imaging is required.

How Is Knee Pain Treated?

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the problem.

Activity Modification

Temporary reduction of activities that worsen knee pain may allow irritated tissues to recover.

However, complete inactivity for long periods is not usually ideal unless advised by a doctor.

Cold or Heat Therapy

Cold packs may help after certain injuries or when swelling is present.

Heat may sometimes help with stiffness, depending on the underlying condition.

Medicines

A doctor may recommend medicines for pain or inflammation when appropriate.

Patients should avoid repeatedly taking pain medicines without understanding why the knee pain is occurring.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy can help improve:

• Muscle strength
• Knee movement
• Flexibility
• Stability
• Walking pattern

Westin Hospitals also provides Physiotherapy services as part of rehabilitation and recovery.

Injections

Selected patients with certain knee conditions may be offered injections after specialist evaluation.

Surgery

Surgery is not necessary for every person with knee pain.

It may be considered when there is major structural damage, severe arthritis or persistent symptoms that do not improve adequately with appropriate non-surgical treatment.

The treatment decision depends on the patient's age, activity level, examination findings and imaging results.

Can Knee Pain Be Prevented?

Not every knee problem can be prevented, but some habits may reduce unnecessary strain.

Helpful steps include:

• Maintaining a healthy body weight
• Staying physically active
• Strengthening thigh and leg muscles
• Warming up before exercise
• Increasing exercise gradually
• Wearing appropriate footwear
• Avoiding repeated activities that cause significant knee pain

Early attention to recurring symptoms can also prevent some problems from becoming more difficult to manage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is knee pain always caused by arthritis?

No. Arthritis is one possible cause, but knee pain can also result from injuries, tendon problems, overuse and other joint conditions.

Can knee pain improve without surgery?

Yes. Many knee problems can be managed with activity changes, medicines, physiotherapy and other non-surgical treatments.

Why does my knee hurt when climbing stairs?

Pain while climbing stairs may occur because of increased pressure on parts of the knee joint. Arthritis, kneecap-related problems and muscle weakness are some possible causes.

Should I exercise when I have knee pain?

It depends on the cause and severity. Gentle activity may be helpful for many conditions, but exercises that increase pain should not be continued without guidance.

Which doctor should I consult for knee pain?

An orthopaedic doctor can evaluate persistent knee pain, injuries, swelling and problems with joint movement or stability.