Knee Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Understanding common causes of knee pain and evidence-based approaches to recovery and prevention.

What Causes Knee Pain?

Knee pain can result from injuries, mechanical problems, types of arthritis, and other problems. Injuries to ligaments, tendons, and fluid-filled sacs that surround the knee joint are common culprits.

Mechanical issues such as loose body, dislocated kneecap, hip or foot pain can also affect the way you walk and cause knee pain.

Common Knee Injuries

  • ACL injuries (tearing of the anterior cruciate ligament)
  • Fractures
  • Torn meniscus
  • Knee bursitis
  • Patellar tendinitis

Recognizing Symptoms

The severity and location of knee pain can vary depending on the cause. Signs and symptoms that sometimes accompany knee pain include:

  • Swelling and stiffness
  • Redness and warmth to the touch
  • Weakness or instability
  • Popping or crunching noises
  • Inability to fully straighten the knee

  • When To See A Doctor

    Call your doctor if you have severe knee pain, swelling, redness, tenderness and warmth around the joint, significant swelling, or if you can't bear weight on your knee or feel as if your knee is unstable.

Treatment Approaches

Treatment for knee pain depends on the specific cause and severity. Some approaches include:

Self-Care Strategies

  • RICE – Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Avoid activities that worsen pain
  • Gentle stretching exercises
  • Weight management to reduce stress on knees

Medical Treatments

  • Physical therapy
  • Prescription medications
  • Injections (corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid)
  • Arthroscopic surgery
  • Partial or total knee replacement in severe cases

Prevention Tips

  • Be in Shape to Play Sports

    Condition your muscles for the activity.

  • Proper Technique

    Get instruction on proper technique when playing sports.

  • Maintain a Healthy Weight

    Extra weight puts added pressure on your knee joints.

Other Conditions

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Evidence-based health information, medically reviewed and verified by healthcare professionals.

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