Knee Injuries

Overview

A knee injury means damage to part of the knee, such as a ligament (a strong band that connects bone to bone), a tendon (which connects muscle to bone), cartilage or the meniscus (smooth pads inside the knee), or bone. It can happen suddenly after a twist, fall, or blow, or build up over time from repeated strain. Most knee injuries are not serious, but some need medical care.

Yes. Knee injuries are one of the most common reasons people see a doctor or physiotherapist, especially after sport or a fall.

People of all ages. They are common in active people, children who play sport, and older adults who fall or have arthritis.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pain in or around the knee, especially when moving, walking, or putting weight on it
• Swelling that may start straight away or over a few hours
• Bruising or tenderness
• Stiffness or trouble bending and straightening the knee
• A popping or snapping feeling at the time of injury
• The knee feeling weak, giving way, or locking
• Limping or trouble with stairs, squatting, or kneeling

Symptoms in children

• Limping or refusing to walk after a fall or sport
• Crying or holding the knee, especially when moving it
• Swelling or bruising around the knee
• Pain that wakes them at night or stops them joining usual activities

Symptoms in older adults

• Sudden swelling or bruising after a fall
• Difficulty walking or getting up from a chair
• Knee pain that is worse with activity and better with rest
• Weakness, unsteadiness, or fear of falling

Causes

Main causes

• Twisting the knee during sport, such as football, netball, basketball, or skiing
• Landing awkwardly or stopping suddenly
• A fall, direct blow, or road traffic injury
• Overuse from repeated jumping, running, kneeling, or squatting
• Wear and tear of the knee joint over time
• Arthritis or other joint conditions that make the knee weaker or more painful

Risk factors

• Playing sports that involve twisting, pivoting, or contact
• A previous knee injury
• Weak thigh or hip muscles or poor balance
• Being overweight, which puts more load on the knee
• Poor footwear or uneven, hard playing surfaces
• Training too much too soon or not warming up
• Jobs that involve lots of kneeling, squatting, or heavy lifting
• Older age, especially with arthritis or falls

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• You cannot bear weight on the leg
• The knee is very swollen, very painful, or looks deformed
• The knee locks, catches, or gives way completely
• You have fever, redness, or warmth around the knee
• You have numbness, weakness, or a change in color in the foot or lower leg

Book a routine appointment if:

• Pain or swelling is not improving after a few days of self-care
• The knee keeps giving way or feels unstable
• You hear clicking or catching, or the knee locks often
• Knee pain is affecting work, sport, sleep, or daily activities
• You have had a knee injury before and the same problem keeps coming back

Diagnosis

A clinician will ask how the injury happened, what symptoms you have, and whether you have had knee problems before. They will look at the knee, check swelling and bruising, and see how well you can move it and bear weight. They may also check the nerves and blood flow in the leg and foot.

Tests that may be done

• X-rays to check for a broken bone
• MRI scan to look at ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and the meniscus
• Ultrasound scan to check tendons, fluid, or swelling
• Blood tests if infection or inflammation is suspected
• A sample of joint fluid in some cases, taken by a clinician

What to expect at your appointment

You may not need any imaging, especially if the injury seems mild. If you do need a scan, your clinician will explain why and what happens next. Follow-up may be with a physiotherapist or specialist team depending on the injury.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the knee injury. Most people improve with self-care, gentle movement, and physiotherapy. Some need a brace, crutches for a short time, or specialist care.

Self-care at home

• Protect the knee from further injury and avoid movements that cause sharp pain.
• Rest the knee for a short time, but avoid complete bed rest; gentle movement helps recovery.
• Elevate the leg on a pillow when sitting or lying down to help swelling.
• A soft bandage or support may help if advised, but it should not be too tight.
• A cold pack wrapped in a cloth for short periods may ease pain and swelling if it helps.
• Ask your pharmacist or clinician about pain relief that is right for you.
• Return to walking, work, and sport gradually, and build up slowly.

Medical treatments

A clinician may recommend physiotherapy to improve strength, movement, and balance. They may suggest a brace or support, crutches for a short time, and advice about pain relief. Treatment may also include looking after any underlying arthritis or infection. Specialist teams may consider procedures such as joint injections in some cases, but this depends on the cause and your needs.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not needed for most knee injuries. It may be discussed for certain severe ligament or tendon tears, some fractures, a knee that stays locked, or ongoing instability that does not improve with rehabilitation. A specialist will explain the benefits and risks.

Living with this condition

Pace yourself and avoid suddenly doing too much. Use handrails on stairs, wear supportive shoes, and keep paths clear at home. Follow any exercises you are given, even on days when the knee feels better.

Lifestyle tips

• Build strength in the thigh, hip, and calf muscles with advice from a physiotherapist
• Keep to a healthy weight to reduce load on the knee
• Choose supportive footwear for walking and sport
• Avoid sudden increases in training or activity
• Warm up before sport and use safe, even surfaces

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet helps your body heal and supports a healthy weight. Gentle exercise, such as walking on flat ground or swimming, can help keep the knee moving. Ask a physiotherapist or clinician which exercises are safe for you. Avoid deep squats, twisting movements, or high-impact activity until your knee is stronger.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Knee pain can be frustrating and may make you feel worried, low, or isolated, especially if it affects sport, work, or sleep. These feelings are common. Talk to a clinician if low mood or anxiety lasts. If you feel unsafe or in crisis, contact your local emergency number or a local crisis service.

Prevention

Not all knee injuries can be prevented, but you can lower your risk. Strong muscles, good balance, safe training, and supportive footwear all help.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for knee injuries.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for knee injuries. A clinician may check your knee if you have symptoms, a previous injury, or a high-risk job or sport.

Complications

If left untreated

• Ongoing pain, swelling, or stiffness
• Weakness or instability that makes the knee give way
• Trouble walking, climbing stairs, or doing sport
• Falls, especially in older adults
• Early wear and tear of the knee joint in some serious injuries

Long-term outlook

Most people with a knee injury recover well, especially with self-care and physiotherapy. Some injuries take longer or need specialist care, but rehabilitation can still help you get back to daily life. If you are worried, ask a qualified healthcare provider for advice.

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