Knee Pain: Common Causes and When to See an Orthopedic Doctor
Knee pain affects people of all ages. The cause may be wear and tear, an injury, or inflammation, and the right treatment depends on finding out which.
Common Causes
- Osteoarthritis: Gradual wearing of cartilage, common after 45. Causes pain on walking and stairs, stiffness and swelling.
- Ligament injuries: Tears of the ACL, MCL or other ligaments, often from sports or a twisting fall.
- Meniscus tear: Injury to the knee cushion, causing catching, locking and pain on twisting.
- Tendinitis: Overuse inflammation around the kneecap, common in runners and jumpers.
- Inflammatory arthritis: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout causing hot, swollen joints.
Home Care for Mild Pain
- Rest from activities that trigger pain, without stopping all movement.
- Apply ice for 15-20 minutes to reduce swelling after activity.
- Maintain a healthy weight; every kilo lost takes several kilos of load off your knees.
- Strengthen the thigh muscles with gentle exercise.
See a Specialist If
Pain lasts more than a few weeks, the knee is swollen, locked or gives way, you cannot bear weight, or there was a significant injury.
Early assessment often avoids surgery altogether. Treatment ranges from physiotherapy and medication to injections, arthroscopy and, for advanced arthritis, joint replacement.
Medical References & Evidence
Written & Reviewed by: Dr. Gaurav Saini
MBBS, MS (Ortho), DNB (Ortho), MNAMS | Fellowship in Joint Replacement
Dr. Gaurav Saini is a leading Senior Consultant Orthopaedic & Robotic Joint Replacement Surgeon with nearly 20 years of expertise and over 5,000 successful surgeries. He practices at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Mohali, specializing in advanced CORI robotic-assisted knee and hip replacement surgery, sports arthroscopy, and complex trauma care.