Knee Pain
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Knee pain is a common problem that can affect people of all ages. It often happens because of an injury, overuse, or conditions like arthritis. The knee is a complex joint, and pain can come from the bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, or muscles around it.
Key facts
- Knee pain is very common and often gets better with simple self-care.
- Most knee pain is not serious and can be managed at home.
- Persistent or severe pain should be checked by a healthcare professional.
Yes, knee pain is one of the most common reasons people visit their doctor.
Knee pain can affect anyone at any age, but it is more common in older adults due to wear and tear, and in younger people who are active in sports.
Symptoms
- You cannot move your knee at all
- Your knee looks deformed or out of place
- You have severe pain and cannot put any weight on the leg
- Your knee is very swollen, hot, and red with a fever
- ⚠You have a sudden injury and your knee feels unstable or catches when you try to move it
- ⚠You have a large amount of swelling right after an injury
- ⚠You have a fever with knee pain and swelling
Common symptoms
- Pain when you move or rest the knee
- Swelling around the knee
- Stiffness or difficulty bending the knee
- Feeling like the knee is unstable or may give way
- A popping or grinding sound when moving the knee
Symptoms in children
- Pain below the kneecap that gets worse with activity (often a sign of Osgood-Schlatter disease)
- Growing pains at night in the legs, but usually not just the knee
Symptoms in older adults
- Pain that gets worse after activity or at the end of the day
- Morning stiffness that eases after moving around
- Swelling that comes and goes
Causes
Main causes
- Injuries such as sprains, strains, torn cartilage, or fractures
- Overuse from repetitive activities like running or jumping
- Arthritis, including osteoarthritis (wear and tear) or rheumatoid arthritis (inflammation)
- Bursitis, which is swelling of the small fluid sacs that cushion the knee
- Tendonitis, or inflammation of the tendons around the knee
Risk factors
- Being overweight or obese, which puts extra stress on the knees
- Playing sports that involve jumping, pivoting, or sudden stops (like basketball, football, skiing)
- Having a previous knee injury
- Poor flexibility or weak muscles around the knee
- Working in a job that requires kneeling or heavy lifting
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- After a serious injury with severe pain and swelling
- If your knee gives way or locks and you cannot straighten it
- If you have a fever along with knee pain and swelling
Book a routine appointment if:
- If the pain lasts more than a few days and is not getting better with rest and ice
- If you have ongoing stiffness or swelling that affects your daily activities
Diagnosis
Doctors usually diagnose knee pain by asking about your symptoms and how the pain started, and by examining your knee. They may move your knee in different ways to check for instability, swelling, and tenderness.
Tests that may be done
- X-rays to check for fractures or arthritis
- MRI scans to look at soft tissues like ligaments, tendons, and cartilage
- Ultrasound to see fluid or inflammation
- Blood tests if arthritis or infection is suspected
What to expect at your appointment
Your doctor will ask you about your pain, how it started, and what makes it better or worse. They will gently press on and move your knee. You may be asked to walk or bend your knee. If needed, imaging tests will be arranged.
Treatment
Treatment for knee pain depends on the cause and how severe the pain is. Many cases improve with simple self-care measures and rest. For more serious problems, your doctor may recommend physical therapy, medications, or in rare cases, surgery.
Self-care at home
- Rest the knee and avoid activities that cause pain for a few days
- Apply ice packs (wrapped in a cloth) for 15–20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling
- Use a compression bandage to support the knee and reduce swelling (but not too tight)
- Keep the leg raised on a pillow when sitting or lying down
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers as recommended by a pharmacist (but always check with a doctor for long-term use)
Medical treatments
Your doctor may suggest physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve flexibility. They might also recommend anti-inflammatory medicines (tablets or gels) or prescribe stronger pain relief if needed. In some cases, steroid injections into the knee joint can help reduce inflammation.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is usually only considered if other treatments have not helped and the pain is severe – for example, to repair torn cartilage or ligaments, or to replace a worn-out joint (knee replacement). Your orthopaedic surgeon will discuss the options with you.
Living with this condition
With knee pain, you may need to adjust how you do certain activities. Use supportive shoes, avoid high-impact sports, and take breaks when your knee feels tired. Many people find that swimming or cycling is easier on the knees than running.
Lifestyle tips
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your knees
- Strengthen your leg muscles with low-impact exercises
- Use good posture and avoid kneeling for long periods
- Wear supportive shoes that cushion your steps
Diet and exercise
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can help reduce inflammation. Low-impact exercise like walking, swimming, or tai chi can keep your joints moving without causing more pain. Always warm up before exercise and cool down afterward.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Living with chronic knee pain can be frustrating and may affect your mood. You might feel anxious about moving or sad that you cannot do things you used to enjoy. It's normal to have these feelings. Talking to a friend, family member, or a counsellor can help.
Prevention
Not all knee pain can be prevented, but you can lower your risk. Keeping a healthy weight, staying active, and using proper techniques during sports and exercise help protect your knees.
Vaccines
Vaccines do not prevent knee pain itself, but staying up to date with recommended vaccines can help prevent infections that might affect the joints (like the flu or pneumonia).
Screening programmes
There are no routine screening tests for knee pain. However, if you have a family history of arthritis or have had previous knee injuries, your doctor may suggest regular check-ups to monitor your joint health.
Complications
If left untreated
- Chronic pain that lasts for months or years
- Loss of strength or range of motion in the knee
- Instability that makes it harder to walk or balance
- Long-term damage to the joint, which may lead to arthritis
Long-term outlook
For most people, knee pain improves with simple care and time. Even if you have arthritis or a more serious injury, there are many treatments available to help manage pain and keep you active. With the right support and lifestyle changes, most people can continue to do the things they love.
Find support
International organisations
Local organisations
- NHS (UK) ↗ · United Kingdom
Helplines
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
Guidance may differ by country or region. Confirm local recommendations with a qualified healthcare provider.