Knee Pain
Knee pain is one of the most common orthopaedic complaints, affecting people of all ages. It can result from injury (ligament tears, meniscus damage), mechanical problems (loose bodies, dislocated kneecap), arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid), or overuse (runner's knee, IT band syndrome). The treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause.
Find a SpecialistSymptoms
- Pain when walking, climbing stairs, or bending the knee
- Swelling and stiffness
- Redness and warmth
- Weakness or instability
- Popping or crunching sounds
- Inability to fully straighten the knee
When to See a Doctor
See an orthopaedic specialist if knee pain is severe, if you cannot bear weight, if the knee locks or gives way, if swelling is significant, or if pain has persisted for more than 2-3 weeks despite rest and home treatment.
Treatment Options
Physical therapy
Strengthening the muscles around the knee (particularly the quadriceps) reduces stress on the joint. Usually the first-line treatment for most knee conditions.
Medications and injections
NSAIDs for inflammation, cortisone injections for arthritis flare-ups, hyaluronic acid injections for osteoarthritis, PRP injections for tendon problems.
Arthroscopic surgery
Minimally invasive surgery to repair torn cartilage, remove loose bodies, or clean up damaged tissue. Quick recovery for many procedures.
Joint replacement
For severe arthritis with bone-on-bone contact that has not responded to conservative treatment. Total or partial knee replacement.
Recovery Timeline
Depends on the cause. Physical therapy: improvement in 4-8 weeks. Arthroscopic surgery: 2-6 weeks. Knee replacement: 3-6 months for full recovery. Many knee conditions are chronic and require ongoing management.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I worry about knee pain?
Seek evaluation if pain is severe, if the knee locks or gives way, if you cannot bear weight, if swelling is significant and rapid, or if pain persists for more than 2-3 weeks. Sudden knee pain after a pop or twist should be evaluated promptly to check for ligament or meniscus damage.
What causes knee pain without injury?
Common causes of knee pain without acute injury include osteoarthritis (especially in adults over 50), overuse (runner's knee, IT band syndrome), bursitis, tendinitis, and patellofemoral syndrome. A proper diagnosis requires examination and often imaging (X-ray or MRI).
What type of doctor should I see for knee pain?
Orthopaedic surgeons specializing in knee conditions or sports medicine are the most appropriate specialists. They can perform a comprehensive evaluation, order imaging, and recommend the full range of treatment options from physical therapy to surgery.
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.