Knee Pain: Common Causes & When to See a Doctor
Knee pain affects people of all ages — from sports injuries in younger adults to osteoarthritis in older adults. Location, timing, and triggering activities help doctors identify the cause.
Knee pain affects people of all ages — from sports injuries in younger adults to osteoarthritis in older adults.
What is knee pain?
Knee pain affects people of all ages — from sports injuries in younger adults to osteoarthritis in older adults.
What causes knee pain?
Common causes include ligament sprains, meniscus tears, patellofemoral pain (runner's knee), bursitis, tendinitis, and osteoarthritis. Overuse during sports or repetitive kneeling can trigger symptoms.
Pain behind or around the kneecap often differs from pain inside the joint line. Locking, giving way, or inability to straighten the knee after injury needs prompt assessment.
When knee pain requires medical evaluation
Seek urgent care if the knee is visibly deformed, cannot bear weight after injury, or is very swollen within hours of trauma. Non-urgent evaluation is appropriate for persistent pain, recurrent swelling, or instability during daily activities.
An orthopedic doctor can examine the knee, order imaging when needed, and recommend physiotherapy, bracing, or other treatments tailored to your diagnosis.
When to seek medical care
Seek urgent care for severe swelling after injury, inability to walk, obvious deformity, or fever with a red, hot knee. Otherwise see a doctor if pain persists beyond two to three weeks.
Which doctor treats knee pain?
For knee pain, a orthopedic doctor is often the appropriate starting point. They can examine you, order relevant tests, and refer to another specialist if needed. View available doctors.
Frequently asked questions
Should I exercise with knee pain?
Gentle movement may help some conditions but can worsen others. Avoid high-impact activity until a doctor clarifies the cause. Physiotherapy guidance is often beneficial.
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