Why Does Your Knee Hurt? 12 Common Causes and When to See a Doctor

Knee pain may either be sudden or gradual. It could be a knife in the back when going upstairs or a dull pain that never really subsides. Knee pain is one of the most frequent complaints of people of all ages, whether it is a result of an old injury or a new strain.

However, not every pain in the knee is identical. Knowing what causes it may assist you in making the correct decisions on the road to recovery. If the pain lasts or gets worse, it may be time to consult a specialist. Many people look for the ortho best hospital in Delhi when home remedies no longer help. Let’s break down the 12 most common reasons for knee pain and when you should see a doctor.

1. Knee Sprain or Strain

Overstretching the ligaments or muscles around the knee can cause swelling, stiffness or pain. This usually happens during sports or heavy lifting. Rest, ice and compression often help, but if the pain doesn’t improve in a few days, seek medical advice.

2. Osteoarthritis

This is the most common type of arthritis in the knees. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joint wears away. It causes stiffness, swelling and pain, especially after sitting for too long or at the end of the day.

3. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Unlike osteoarthritis, this is an autoimmune condition. It can affect both knees and may cause warmth, redness, and swelling. Morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes is a key sign. Early treatment helps slow down joint damage.

4. Meniscus Tear

The meniscus is a rubbery disc that cushions your knee. A sudden twist or turn during movement can tear it. You may feel a pop at the time of injury, followed by swelling and difficulty moving the knee.

5. Patellar Tendinitis

This happens when the tendon connecting your kneecap to your shinbone becomes inflamed. It is common in runners and athletes who jump frequently. Pain often starts just below the kneecap.

6. Bursitis

The bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that helps reduce friction in the knee. Repeated pressure or a fall can inflame it, causing swelling and pain. People who kneel often for work are more likely to develop this condition.

7. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injury

A torn ACL is a serious injury common in sports. It can happen when you suddenly stop or change direction. A loud pop, followed by swelling and instability, is typical.

8. Iliotibial Band Syndrome

This occurs when the band of tissue running along the outside of your thigh becomes tight or inflamed. It can cause pain on the outside of the knee, especially in runners or cyclists.

9. Dislocated Kneecap

Sometimes the kneecap moves out of place. This causes a visible deformity and severe pain. It usually requires urgent medical attention to put it back in position.

10. Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joint. It leads to sudden, intense pain, redness and swelling. The knee can feel hot and extremely tender during an attack.

11. Osgood-Schlatter Disease

This condition affects teenagers during growth spurts. It causes pain and swelling just below the kneecap where the tendon connects to the shinbone. It usually improves with rest and time.

12. Fractures

A break in any of the bones in the knee can be extremely painful. It is usually caused by direct trauma, such as a fall or accident. Swelling, bruising and inability to move the joint are signs you should not ignore.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If your knee pain:

• Lasts more than a few days
• Is severe or getting worse
• Comes with swelling or bruising
• Makes it hard to walk or bend your knee
• Feels unstable or gives way

It is time to see a specialist. Ignoring the pain may lead to further damage. Early diagnosis can make treatment easier and prevent long-term issues. For serious or long-standing pain, people often choose the best orthopaedic hospital in Delhi for expert care, imaging tests and advanced treatments like physiotherapy, injections or even surgery if needed.

Don’t Wait for Pain to Take Over

Knee pain might seem small at first, but if left untreated, it can turn into something much harder to manage. The right care at the right time can help you recover faster and avoid more serious complications.

Feeling that your knee pain is more than just a passing ache? Visit the ortho best hospital in Delhi or consult the best orthopaedic hospital in Delhi, such as Jaipur Golden Hospital, for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan that suits your lifestyle.