Patient guide
Knee pain
The most common causes of knee pain and when it is worth consulting an orthopaedic specialist.
Knee pain is one of the most common reasons for seeing an orthopaedic specialist. It may appear suddenly — after an injury or overload — or build up gradually over many months.
Most common causes
- ligament and meniscus injuries, e.g. during sport
- overuse, including in runners
- knee osteoarthritis
- inflammation of tendons and bursae
- patellofemoral joint problems
When to see an orthopaedic specialist
- pain lasts longer than a few days or keeps coming back
- the knee is swollen
- the knee feels unstable or “gives way”
- the knee locks or is hard to straighten fully
- pain makes it difficult to climb stairs, sleep or carry out daily activities
When to seek urgent help
After a severe injury, with visible deformity, sudden major swelling, inability to bear weight on the leg, or fever with redness and warmth of the knee, go to a hospital emergency department (SOR) without delay.
The information on this page is general and does not replace a medical consultation.