Overview
Discomfort or pain in the knee joint is one of the most frequent reasons people visit their GP or physiotherapist. The knee is a complex joint, made up of bone, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and fluid-filled sacs (bursae) — any of which can become a source of pain. Understanding the character and location of knee discomfort can help identify its likely cause.
Types of Knee Discomfort
- Sharp pain — may suggest a meniscus tear, ligament injury, or loose body in the joint
- Dull, aching pain — often associated with osteoarthritis or bursitis
- Pain that is worse going down stairs — often patellofemoral pain (behind the kneecap)
- Pain on the inner side (medial) — may suggest medial meniscus or MCL injury
- Pain on the outer side (lateral) — often IT band syndrome or lateral meniscus
- Pain at the front below the kneecap — patellar tendonitis
- Pain all around the knee with swelling — possible arthritis or effusion
Self-Help Measures
- RICE — Rest, Ice, Compression (a knee support), Elevation
- Low-impact activity — swimming, cycling, walking (not running) during an acute episode
- Weight management — even a 5% weight loss reduces knee pain significantly
- Strengthening exercises — particularly quadriceps and gluteal muscles
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical assessment if your knee is significantly swollen, you cannot bear weight, you hear or feel a pop at the time of injury, pain is severe or worsening, or symptoms persist for more than 2–4 weeks despite self-care.